Thailand's April Auto Output Hits Five-Year Low as Exports Slide, Domestic Sales Edge Up

Thailand's automobile production in April totaled 103,794 units, down 0.44% year-on-year, marking a five-year low. Vehicle exports for the month fell 8.43% year-on-year to 60,190 units. Domestic sales, however, saw a modest increase of 2.54% to 48,394 units, supported by orders generated from the Bangkok International Motor Show. The Federation of Thai Industries attributed the decline in production primarily to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting exports and rising energy prices. In March, Thailand’s auto output had risen 2.69% year-on-year. As Southeast Asia’s largest automotive manufacturing hub, Thailand hosts production facilities for numerous international automakers, including Toyota, Honda, BYD, and Great Wall Motor, serving both domestic and overseas markets. The Federation maintained its earlier forecast, projecting that Thailand’s vehicle production will grow by 3% in 2026 to reach 1.5 million units, up from 1.455 million units in 2024 (which represented a 0.9% year-on-year decline).