Thailand Business News — Morning Briefing
Today's briefing examines Thailand's automotive tax restructuring, Japan's semiconductor industry consolidation, Hong Kong's stronger-than-expected economic growth, China's latest financial-market intervention and Grab's improving profitability across Southeast Asia.
Wednesday, 4 November 2026, Thailand — The Thai government has implemented a significant increase in excise taxes on imported electric vehicles, raising the rate from 10% to 35% for fully imported battery-electric vehicles and range-extended electric vehicles. This decision, effective from January 2027, aims to protect domestic automotive manufacturing and supply chains.
The move comes as Thailand has attracted US$4.59 billion in investment approvals for EV-related projects in the first half of 2026, with electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles accounting for 55% of new vehicle registrations during the same period. Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas emphasized that the higher taxes seek to preserve Thailand's status as a regional automotive production and export hub.
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- Thailand Business News — Morning Briefing thailand-business-news.com
