Global tire maker to expand production capacity in Thailand

BANGKOK, Feb 19 (TNA) – Buoyed up by marked global and Thai economic recoveries, Michelin, the world’s giant tire manufacturer, plans to expand its production capacity in Thailand in preparation for economic growth.

Speaking of a courtesy call paid by Michelin Southeast Asia and Oceania managing director Frederic Vincent on Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjaiva at Government House, Kiati Sitthi-amorn, chairman of Thai Trade Representatives (TTR), said the Michelin chief reported an increase in the group’s total sales by 20 per cent in January, which showed the global economy had bottomed out and begun to recover markedly.

Mr Vincent affirmed Michelin sees Thailand as Asia’s most important production base for exports worldwide and planned to increase its production capacity to accommodate economic recovery in Thailand.

However, the Michelin executive saw a need to monitor the political situation closely as the group did not want to witness any uncertainties.

Michelin considers Thailand as its key tire production hub and is ready to back the Thai government’s policy to designate 2010 as the Year of Safety, particularly road safety and environmental protection.

The group will set up its regional office and production base here for Southeast Asia and Oceania, Mr Kiati quoted the Michelin executive as saying.

Currently, the group has 6,300 employees and produces 80 kinds of car, motorcycle and aircraft tires in response to local and international demand. (TNA)