Thai government tightens tire market access requirements

The requirements for accessing Thai tire market became stricter and tire producers intend to enter the market will face more challenges.

Thai government has been transforming some voluntary certification to mandatory certification and issued some new standards for certification.

According to official information from Thai government, the country is to implement new compulsory certification standards for tires of passenger car, light truck and motorcycle. The compulsory standards are expected to be released this year.

Thailand is called "eastern Detroit", it is the auto making center in Southeast Asia and the largest auto market in ASEAN, with auto output accounting for over 40% of Southeast Asia's total.

Renowned auto companies, including General Motors, Ford, Honda, Toyota, Mitsubishi, and BMW, have all set up production bases in Thailand.

Preference policies and government support greatly boosted the development of auto industry in Thailand, and pushed up the demands for tire, safety glass and motorcycle helmet.

Many Chinese tire producers put their eyes on Thailand for business development.

An industry insider said as Thai government is lifting the market access standards, Chinese companies should move quickly.

It will be more convenient for exporters to acquire local certifications with the help of authorized, professional and experienced service agencies, said the insider.

Thai Industrial Standards Institute will be responsible for issuing the ceritificates.