Thailand may improve tax incentives for eco-cars

The government may improve tax incentives for eco-car production in Thailand to stimulate the local economy, said Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suwit Khunkitti. He said a government panel seeking solutions to delays in Thailand’s eco-car production programme to build small, fuel-efficient cars could favor a “green tax” incentive. “The more reductions in carbon emissions and the greener technology for engines [that carmakers can provide], the more green tax incentives they would receive,” he said. To date, only Nissan Motor Corp. of the six companies that have been granted privileges under the scheme has announced a firm commitment to start making eco-cars in Thailand early next year. (July 23, 2009)