Perodua is no stranger to the export business, having sold its cars in some overseas markets even from its early years. However, it has not rushed into new markets as it makes sure first that it understands enough of the target market to ensure that the products it offers are suited for customers there.
High demand in its home market, where it has been the most popular brand for many years, has also limited how much of its production it can allocate for exports. Not so widely known is that it has been providing Daihatsu with its cars made in Malaysia for sale under the Japanese carmaker’s brand in Indonesia.
First year of expansion
Now the Malaysian carmaker aims to expand its overseas markets activity as its ecosystem is now in a better position to do so. “We foresee 2024 to be our first year of our export expansion as we are now at a point where the Malaysian automotive ecosystem would be able to cope with the ever-growing demand of our vehicles both within and outside the country,” said Perodua’s President & CEO, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad.
He expects the growth in Perodua’s exports to continue as the company will be aggressively expanding its operations and its vendors’ production capabilities. In addition, the planned increase in exports will also give greater opportunities for vendors to grow their sales volume in tandem with the need for spare parts.
79% increase in export volume
Perodua will ramp up its exports by 79% to 1,960 units this year from 1,094 units in 2023, and Brunei is the first export market where the volume will be expanded without compromising domestic allocation of vehicles. This ensures that Malaysian customers will not have to wait longer for their cars, a situation which Perodua has worked hard to improving.
“In fact, we have significantly reduced the waiting period for most of our popular models and even have ready stock for selected models,” said Dato’ Sri Zainal.
The carmaker recently introduced the Alza AV and H, as well as the Axia AV and G, to Brunei with sales target of 120 units and 40 units, respectively. Perodua also exports the Bezza to Brunei, where it aims to sell 300 units, bringing the expected total sales in Brunei to 460 units in 2024.
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