Vehicle production in Thailand increased sharply in the first two months of 2008, thanks to strong export sales and a recovery in domestic demand after two years of decline.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

Production of passenger cars and commercial vehicles reached 231,680 units in the January-February period – up 27.4% year on year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Around three-quarters of output comprised one-tonne pickup trucks.


Vehicle exports rose 37.5% to 132,683 units and are now substantially higher than production for the domestic market, which amounted to 98,997 units.


All Thai pick-up truck plants now supply global markets, after Nissan Motor overhauled its Siam Nissan Automobile Assembly joint venture last year to produce the new Navara pick-up for both domestic and export sales.


The FTI now forecasts vehicle production to reach a record 1.4m units in 2008, 12% higher than last year’s 1.25m. Output is expected to be supported by strengthening domestic demand now that the political uncertainty of the previous two years has been resolved following the peaceful outcome of last December’s general elections.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

While export demand will likely be affected by the slow-down in global economic growth, a broader range of export models will help support Thai output. Demand in some key markets in Asia also continues to grow strongly.


The domestic market expanded 15.1% to 94,657 units in January and February, compared with the 82,249 units sold in the same period of 2007.


Of these, Toyota sold 38,496 units for a market share of 40.7%, followed by Isuzu with 21,334 units and a 22.5% share and Honda with 13,777 units and a 14.6% share.


Tony Pugliese