BJ Mercantile Inc. is making another move to widen its reach in the commercial vehicle scene, this time by teaming up with Vietnam’s THACO Auto.

The two companies formalized their partnership in late June through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will see BJ Mercantile become the official distributor of THACO’s trucks and buses in the Philippines.

For BJ Mercantile, it’s a strategic addition to its growing automotive portfolio, which already includes names like Scania, Ashok-Leyland, Fuso and Hongqi. The company has come a long way since its early days in 1974, importing used engines and trucks. Today, it’s involved in everything from logistics and petroleum to cold storage and marine transport.

Vice president Leilani Lim Tan shared that the company is excited about the opportunity to offer more choices to Filipino customers. “We are honored to partner with THACO and are excited to offer their high-quality trucks and buses to the Philippine market,” she said. “This collaboration aligns with our commitment to provide innovative, cost-effective and reliable transport solutions to support the growth of Filipino businesses.”

THACO (short for Truong Hai Auto Corporation) is one of the biggest names in Vietnam’s auto industry. Since it was founded in 1997, it has grown into a multi-industry corporation with ventures spanning agriculture, logistics, construction and services, but it’s still best known for its vehicles.

Its manufacturing hub, the Chu Lai Truong Hai Industrial Complex, is one of the most advanced in the region. THACO Auto, the group’s core automotive arm, handles everything from design and production to retail and after-sales service.

In his speech during the press conference, THACO Auto vice president Doan Dat Ninh emphasized the company’s commitment to offering not just quality vehicles, but dependable support as well. “We ensure the supply of high-quality products at reasonable prices that meet customer requirements,” he said. “We also provide 24-month warranties and spare parts availability, plus technical training to keep operations running smoothly.”

Since 2004, THACO has produced over 25,000 buses. In fact, the company has been quietly exporting to the Philippines since 2019, where its buses have been well received by local operators.

The newly signed deal is expected to deepen that presence. THACO buses, known for their practical designs and fuel efficiency, are built on durable Chinese chassis platforms, making them suitable for the kind of rugged use often required on Philippine roads.

Looking ahead, THACO plans to introduce more truck models and build up its service and distribution network locally. Both companies believe that the partnership will support the country’s efforts to modernize public transport while giving operators more affordable and reliable choices.

For BJM and THACO, it’s a long-term commitment to help drive progress on Philippine roads.