Manufacturing Expo 2010 Report

[Sunbelt Asia]

Exports of automobiles and automotive parts are expected to increase 12 percent year-on-year as international investors continue to pour money into Thai manufacturing operations, the director of the Industrial Promotion Center in Chonburi told a Manufacturing Expo 2010 seminar audience.

Kitipan Panithaporn told the April 22 gathering at the Eastern Grand Palace Hotel in Chonburi that with markets in Asia, Australia and the Middle East now recovering, more companies are looking to Thailand to set up or invest in car-manufacturing plants.

He warned, however, that those looking to get into Thai market to realize they’re not alone and to make considerations for increased competition.

“State and private agencies should cooperate to promote Thai industrial development as our aim is to be in the Top 10 for exports of autos and parts,” he said.