Chinese automotive giant Changan Automobile marked a major milestone on Friday as it officially inaugurated its first overseas manufacturing plant in Thailand.
The event coincided with the rollout of the company’s 28.59 millionth vehicle, underscoring Changan’s rapid global growth and strategic expansion into Southeast Asia.
Located in the eastern Rayong Province, the advanced facility represents a significant investment of approximately 10 billion Thai baht (equivalent to around 300 million USD). This new plant is set to become a cornerstone of Changan’s international operations, featuring five major workshops: welding, painting, general assembly, engine assembly, and battery assembly. The factory is equipped with a cutting-edge production system and has an initial annual capacity of 100,000 vehicles.
Thailand’s Minister of Industry, Akanat Promphan, welcomed the development, noting that Changan’s decision to establish its first global plant in Thailand reflects the company’s confidence in the country’s economy and reaffirms the strong bilateral relationship between China and Thailand.
As part of Thailand’s ambitious plan to make 30 percent of its auto production electric by 2030, Changan is positioned to play a vital role in supporting the nation’s electric vehicle (EV) transition. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), hailed the move as a “pivotal moment” for the country’s EV sector, emphasizing that the plant will accelerate Thailand’s emergence as a major hub for global EV manufacturing.
Zhu Huarong, Chairman of Changan Automobile, highlighted the plant’s importance in the company’s transformation from a vehicle exporter to a comprehensive international operator. He said Changan remains committed to investing in the Thai economy, building local supply chains, and delivering green, high-tech solutions.
Over the next three years, Changan plans to release 12 new energy vehicle models in Southeast Asia. It also aims to set up a right-hand-drive parts warehouse covering 98% of its components, with a 24-hour delivery window — reinforcing its commitment to efficiency and customer satisfaction in regional markets.