Developed Asian countries Hong Kong and South Korea were the two biggest markets among the nine countries included in the audit. Together, camera sales in these two countries reached US$1.35 billion.

Among the camera types that are a favourite are the compact cameras with fixed lens. Four in every five camera units sold last year were of this type.

Fifty per cent of the total volume of compact cameras sold last year with fixed lens retailed at US$200 or less, making it the most affordable type of digital camera in the market.

Another favourite are the "mirrorless cameras" with changeable lens. These cameras were particularly popular in Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan.

Lim noted: "The gradual hike in market share of these cameras over the last 12 months indicates the increasing acceptance level across the countries--a clear sign also that consumers are willing to pay a higher price for this recently launched compact system cameras."