Thailand extends EV production deadline, allows re-export to ease auto glut

Hybrid incentives expanded as buyers turn bearish on electric cars

 20241128Toyota's Camry

A Toyota Camry at the Thailand International Motor Expo 2024 on Nov. 28 in Bangkok. Thailand has offered an olive branch to Japanese carmakers who helped build the nation into Southeast Asia's regional auto hub. (Photo by Yuki Kohara)

FRANCESCA REGALADO, Nikkei staff writer

BANGKOK -- Carmakers in Thailand will be allowed to re-export electric vehicles they have imported over the past two years as the government seeks to correct the domestic market's oversupply problem, one aggravated by consumers' weak purchasing power and tepid demand for fully electric cars.

Beginning in 2022, electric vehicle makers received incentives to invest in Thailand, including customs-free imports of fully assembled vehicles while local factories were built. Buyer subsidies were also offered.

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