BANGKOK, 30 Dec 2013 The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) expects that Thailand’s auto industry would be able to produce 2.5 to 2.55 million cars next year.
Mr. Surapong Pisitpattanapong, Deputy Chairman and Auto Industry Spokesman of the FTI made the estimate, elaborating that the exports would be in the range of 1.2 to 1.25 million units. He said the number could reach 1.3 million provided the global economy recovers. Domestic sales could also be in the same range depending on investment performances by both the government and private sectors. Mr. Surapong explained that the success of other industrial exports would spur economic growth and influence the local auto buyers’ purchasing decision.
Mr. Surapong also said that the current political situation in Thailand has yet to affect the local auto industry, adding nonetheless the matter needed to be monitored closely. According to him, the global economic recovery and labor cost play important roles in the auto industry’s performance. He noted that the current labor situation, in particular, is worrisome as the country is facing not only high labor cost but also labor shortages as well.
Mr. Surapong expressed his doubt whether the nation would have enough labor to support the industry should it increase the auto production target.
