The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Embassy in Thailand, the Sri Lanka Automobile Component Manufacturers Association (SLACMA), and the Thai-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce, organized an exposure and study tour to Thailand for Sri Lankan automotive exporters and manufacturers.
A delegation comprising representatives from nine (09) Sri Lankan automotive sector companies, accompanied by an EDB official, participated in the mission from November 30 to December 6, 2024, in Thailand. The main objective of the program was to enhance participants' knowledge of the automotive components sector while providing exposure to emerging market trends and potential business opportunities.
During the week-long visit, the delegation toured key automotive industry sites, including the SAIC Motor - MG car manufacturing plant. The visit provided firsthand insights into vehicle assembly technologies, including electric, hybrid, and conventional vehicles. Participants observed advanced machinery and assembly lines with an annual production capacity exceeding 40,000 units.
The delegation also visited Siam NSK Steering Systems Co. Ltd., where they gained valuable exposure on cutting-edge steering system manufacturing technologies. They learned about advanced machinery, innovative manufacturing techniques, and defect inspection processes used in the factory.
Another key visit was to the wire harness manufacturing plant of Dashing International, specializing in heavy vehicle wire harness production. The Sri Lankan delegation explored new technologies, injection moulding processes, tools, and machinery. They also discussed potential supply opportunities for Sri Lankan products with company representatives.
At the Thai Smile Group, the delegation studied the production of electric buses and electric boats, including EV transportation control systems. The company operates over 2,500 buses in Bangkok and manages a fleet of EV boats they manufacture. Delegation studied the monitoring system of EV buses using AI technology and possibilities of introducing similar system to Sri Lanka.
The team also visited the Thai government-owned Thailand Automotive Institute, where they observed automotive component testing methods. The institute expressed its willingness to provide technical support to assist in developing Sri Lanka’s automotive industry.
To gain market insights, the delegation explored Worachak Market and Poonsup Market, two key after-sales auto parts markets in Thailand. They studied product quality standards, pricing, and potential entry points into the value chain.
The tour concluded with a meeting at the Sri Lankan Embassy in Thailand, where delegates engaged with the Sri Lankan diaspora and officials from the Thai-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce. Discussions centered on business opportunities and strategies for entering the Thai automotive market.
The exposure tour proved to be a highly rewarding experience, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participating companies while supporting the continued growth and development of Sri Lanka’s automotive components sector.
