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November 30, 2009 19:21 PM

Strategic Joint-ventures Planned Between Proton And Original Equipment Manufacturers

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 30 (Bernama) -- The government is planning strategic joint ventures between Proton Holdings Bhd and original equipment manufacturers(OEM) in a move to increase the national car maker's long-term competitiveness, International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed told the Dewan Rakyat Monday.

He said such strategic alliance would also help Proton expand its market share, both at home and abroad.

"Besides, it will maximise the use of latest and advanced technologies which would serve as an impetus for continued development along the local automotive chain," he said in a written reply to Teresa Kok Suh Sim (DAP-Seputeh), who wanted to know of the government's plan for Proton over the next three years.

On the retail price of cars, Mustapa said: "It does not only depend on import and excise duties and, road tax.

"It also depends on other factors like the completely knocked down component of the car, foreign exchange, transportation cost and insurance," he added.

On duty for cars imported from Asean countries, Mustapa said it would be abolished on January 1, 2010 under the Asean Free Trade Agreement.

Import duties would also be reduced or abolished under the Free Trade Agreements which the government has negotiated or signed with several countries.



-- BERNAMA





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