Nokia aims to increase its share in the local mobile handset market this year after it declined markedly last year.

The Finnish handset manufacturer expects its growth in sales volume and value in Thailand will defy the industry-wide outlook, which is for a slight increase in volume and flat value growth.

Shumit Kapoor, the new general manager of Nokia Thailand, said he expected to see growth because of the company's strong distribution network, full range of product lines and preferences on brand positioning.

Mr Kapoor succeeded Vipul Sabharwal in February. Previously, he spent a year as head of general retail and channel management for Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand and emerging Asia.

Before joining Nokia, Mr Kapoor spent 12 years with Procter & Gamble Co and was responsible for marketing and channel management in India, Thailand, Malaysia, Germany and Indonesia.

Under his leadership, Mr Kapoor said Nokia would continue following the strategy of distribution channels and retail management to extend the reach of its products to consumers.

"My objectives are to ensure the company's growth and success and implement our internet service strategy."

He said it was too early to predict and evaluate the Thai market now. His priorities currently are to understand the company's products, consumer behaviour, the local handset business situation and market competition.

One thing he learned about the Thai market was that the retail landscape was becoming more consolidated.

Mr Kapoor admitted Nokia saw an obvious decline in its market share in Thailand last year. But he said the company started to see an increase in its share in the first two months of this year, thanks to new product lines and a marketing campaign.

"Even though Thailand is a dynamic market, we are still in an excellent position and we're confident we can maintain our market leadership."

Nokia would continue its investment here despite the downturn, he added.