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Malaysia Sun
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- Malaysia Sun
Chinese automakers drive green mobility in Thailand, says Thai expert
A Thai auto industry expert has highlighted China's world-class expertise in EV technology, particularly in battery systems and industrial-scale manufacturing, which is complemented by Thailand's geographic advantages, skilled labor, and robust government support. BANGKOK, July 20 (Xinhua) -- The growing presence of Chinese automakers in Thailand has marked a crucial milestone in collaborative efforts toward green mobility and deepening of ties with China, a Thai auto industry expert has said. Suroj Sangsnit, president of the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT), described the partnership as a testament to the systematic development of electric vehicle ecosystem and a strategic step toward advancing shared environmental goals. In a recent interview with Xinhua, Suroj highlighted China's world-class expertise in EV technology, particularly in battery systems and industrial-scale manufacturing, which is complemented by Thailand's geographic advantages, skilled labor, and robust government support. This synergy, he said, enables both countries to collaborate across the entire EV value chain, from vehicle production and infrastructure development to battery recycling. The arrival of Chinese manufacturers, offering "advanced technology, accessible prices, and swift product deployment," has made EVs more attainable for the average Thai consumer, fostering wider adoption, he said. That has also spurred investment in infrastructure such as charging stations, battery repair services, EV maintenance education, and parts manufacturing, he noted. In the first half of 2025, new registrations of pure electric passenger vehicles in Thailand increased nearly 35 percent over the same period last year, reaching 55,708 units, of which Chinese brands accounted for almost 90 percent, official data showed. Over the past few years, several Chinese automakers have established production facilities in Thailand, significantly bolstering the Southeast Asian country's ambition to become a regional electric mobility hub. Suroj underscored the EVAT's role in fostering regional integration within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations by creating a network with its counterparts. He noted that the goal is to develop common standards and enable cross-border infrastructure, such as charging roaming. Suroj emphasized that EV cooperation will be a cornerstone of future cooperation. He envisioned collaborative efforts in technologies, including solid-state batteries, intelligent EV platforms, and battery recycling solutions, with the establishment of joint research and development centers in Thailand.
Filipino Times
02-04-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Abalos vows to remove e-VAT to lower electricity cost; create more jobs for Filipinos
Former Interior Secretary and senatorial candidate Benhur Abalos Jr. has promised to push for the removal of the expanded value-added tax (e-VAT) on electricity to help reduce power bills and create more job opportunities for Filipinos. Abalos said high electricity costs make it difficult for businesses to thrive in the country. By scrapping the 12-percent e-VAT on electricity, he believes more companies will invest, leading to increased job creation and economic growth. 'I will file a bill na tanggalin, at the very least, yung e-VAT sa kuryente. Bakit? Once matanggal mo yan, dadami ang mga kompanyang papasok,' Abalos said in an interview with ABS-CBN News. 'How can you promote manufacturing and other kind of things kung doon pa lang sa kuryente, talo ka na,' he added. For illustrative purposes only With the 12-percent VAT, a household consuming 200 kWh at P12.29 per kWh pays a total electricity bill of P2,752.98. Without EVAT, the bill drops to P2,458.02, saving nearly P300 each month. While he acknowledged that removing the tax could mean revenue losses for the government, Abalos said the economic boost from increased business investments and job creation would more than make up for it. 'May kapalit 'yan. Dadami naman ang ibang klaseng negosyo. Dadami ang trabaho sa tao, at magiginhawaan aNg tao,' Abalos has consistently opposed VAT on electricity. As a congressman in 2005, he voted against its implementation, warning that it would drive up inflation and increase the financial burden on Filipino consumers. After the e-VAT law was passed, he immediately filed a resolution seeking a two-year suspension of VAT on electricity and fuel, arguing that it would help ease financial strain on both businesses and households. If elected senator, Abalos vows to continue this fight, pushing for legislative reforms that will lower power costs and create a more business-friendly environment for the country.
