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Showing posts from October, 2012

Proton: DRB-Hicom set to announce automaker’s Japanese strategic partner today

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VIA PAUL TAN'S BLOG According to a report, DRB-Hicom has selected a Japanese carmaker as Proton’s first foreign strategic partner, and that partnership is set to be announced in Japan later today. The report by Business Times doesn’t name the automaker, only venturing through a person familiar with the matter that the partner “is among the top 10 manufacturers in the world.” The BT report adds that that there are four Japanese automakers in that global list for 2012, namely Toyota, Nissan, Honda and Suzuki.

Achana Limpaitoon: AEC brings opportunities - and risks

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BANGKOK POST 25.10.2012 Fresh investments likely, but parts-makers need to raise standards dramatically It is undeniable that the coming of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) brings with it both opportunities and risks for the Thai auto parts industry.  As Thailand formally enters the AEC in 2015, among the expected benefits include the birth of a much larger market place, with higher quality for raw materials and parts, as well as lower prices. This is a great chance for fresh investments and for Thai companies to raise their capabilities. Of course, Asean could well become an important parts production hub in the future.  http://www.nationmultimedia.com/business/AEC-brings-opportunities--and-risks-30192998.html

Bangkok Post: Wage boost risks stalling the auto industry

It has been half a year since the government embarked upon the 40 per cent nationwide minimum wage increase. Another boost is scheduled for January. Many have expressed concern over the risk of companies relocating production bases. Some have argued in the wage rise's favour due to subsequent productivity improvement. Read more here

Thai Vehicle Output +31.2%, Exports +8.4% in September

Thailand's vehicle production and exports increased in September as auto makers continued to play catch-up from the effects of last year's flooding, and as tax incentives for first-time car buyers added oomph to domestic demand, the Federation of Thai Industries said Thursday. Production increased to 228,500 vehicles in September, 8.6% more than in August, and 31.2% more than in September last year, the federation said in a statement. Exports increased 15.2% on month and 8.4% on year to 98,268 vehicles. Read more here