The Cabinet, during its meeting on 10 November 2026, approved a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Thailand-China automotive cooperation, aimed at boosting investment, trade, and EV-smart vehicle technology.

The MOU will be signed between the Ministry of Industry of Thailand and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People's Republic of China. Apart from elevating cooperation in modern automotive industries and technological innovation, it will also promote the development of electric vehicles (EVs) and intelligent vehicles, as well as strengthening the automotive industrial supply chain between the two countries.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana said that the bilateral cooperation would enhance Thailand’s competitiveness in the automotive industry and promote industrial development on a sustainable basis. The cooperation framework covers the following five areas.

1. Investment: Promote two-way investment between Thai and Chinese enterprises in automotive, auto parts, EVs, and battery manufacturing and recycling, while facilitating bilateral investment projects; 

2. Trade: Encourage the exchange of information on market conditions, trade policies, and production demand to expand trade opportunities in the automotive and parts sectors within a fair, equitable, and open environment; 

3. Standards and Regulations: Advance information sharing on automotive standards and regulations through seminars, training, and joint activities, while promoting standards harmonization and mutual recognition of test results; 

4. Industrial Management: Share experiences in strategic planning, industrial supervision, and problem analysis to develop solutions and enhance management efficiency in the automotive sector; 

5. Policy Measures: Exchange information and experiences on automotive support measures for industrial development in line with the Government’s policies, technological shifts, and future industry trends. 

The five-year MOU will be signed during Chinese Premier of the State Council Li Qiang’s official visit to Thailand from 13 to 15 November. The two countries will also establish the China-Thailand Automotive Industry Cooperation Working Group to coordinate and monitor implementation progress.