Suzuki plans to build a new factory in Myanmar

KUALA LUMPUR: The world is fighting with coronavirus pandemic disease. The WHO mentions the social distancing an important tool to control the spread of this virus which resulted in lockdown in several nations. In the automobile industry, we are hearing the shutting down of factories daily. But amid this tough situation, we bring a piece of positive information i.e. opening of a new car factory. The Japanese car manufacturer, Suzuki has recently announced plans to build a new factory in the Myanmar of South-East Asia.

Suzuki already runs two factories in the country which mainly produce Ciaz compact sedan, Carry small truck, Swift subcompact, and Ertiga MPV. To meet out the growing demand, the firm has decided to set-up a new factory. 

The new unit will be built by Suzuki's subsidiary firm named Suzuki Thilawa Motor Company. It will be located in Thilawa Special Economic Zone in Yangon in a 200,000 square meter area with an annual production capacity of 40,000 units. Suzuki is going to invest ¥12 billion (RM 470 million) for the new facility which will start operations in September 2021. Welding, painting, and final assembly of the products will be carried out in the new unit. 

The firm has entered Myanmar since 1998 and made a joint venture with the government to produce and assemble vehicles in 1999. But later on, it became a fully foreign-owned enterprise. Suzuki has a long history in the nation and thus holds an impressive market share of 60.3%. The firm has sold 13,206 units in 2019. 

According to the firm, “With the construction of the new plant, Suzuki will meet the automobile market needs in Myanmar, which is projected to make further expansion.” 

So, these were the Suzuki plans for Myanmar. Coming to Malaysia, the industry is struggling hard, we hope things will get better soon.

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