The domestic players of automobiles are not worried on the entry of United States-made cars following the agreement of the Philippine and US government to zero the taxes of all American auto imports.
“We should look at the positive side of it. There is potential to enhance the competitiveness of local manufacturing given the advantage we have in terms of lower tariff vis-a-vis our neighboring competitors,” said Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) Atty. Rommel Gutierrez in a Viber message.
Earlier, Board of Investments managing head, Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo disclosed that before reaching to a zero tariff concession with the US, the Philippine government assured that no local manufacturers will be hurt or compromised, as they see that high-end US brands are the ones to flood the Philippine market.
Further, Gutierrez said the entry of US imported cars starting 1 August will not affect the sales of the entire year, airing confidence on the improving trajectory of the auto sales, as well as Philippine market’s tenacity.
On Monday, CAMPI and the Truck Manufacturers Association reported that the local auto industry recorded a 2.0% year-to-date (YTD) growth as of June 2025, with total industry sales reaching 230,912 units
The report said commercial vehicles were the main growth driver, rising by 11.3% YTD to 185,265 units, and now accounting for over 80% of total sales.
Meanwhile, passenger cars contributed 19.77% of the market with 45,647 units sold.
In June 2025, total monthly sales hit 40,483 units, a 3.6% increase year-on-year and 1.8% higher than May 2025. While passenger car sales reached 6,922 units, ongoing market shifts and evolving buyer preferences present opportunities for innovation and recovery in this segment.
“As the industry heads into the second half of the year, manufacturers and dealers remain focused on enhancing customer experience, introducing updated vehicle lineups, and supporting market recovery across all segments—including passenger cars,” the joint statement said.
Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation remains the dominantmarket player with 48.19% share, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation with 19.06%, Nissan Philippines, Inc. with 5.14 %, and Suzuki Philippines, Inc. at 4.45%, share. (RAFFY AYENG)