Exports to Taiwan

Mazda Motor Corporation recently resumed exports of completely built passenger cars to Taiwan after 23 years with two model lines, the multipurpose MPV and Millenia luxury sedan from Japan. The models were introduced yesterday into the Taiwan marketplace.

Under the Taiwanese automobile policy, the export of completely built passenger cars from Japan to Taiwan was banned from 1974. With Taiwan's aim to participate in the World Trade Organization (WTO), the country partly removed the ban in February of this year.

The Taiwanese automobile market reached a peak in 1994 with 580,000 units, but has been gradually decreasing over the past few years. It is expected that the market will remain at the level of 500,000 to 600,000 in the foreseeable future. Japanese makes account for 65% of the total market, and the percentage of passenger cars is high at 75%. With the lift of the ban on Japanese passenger cars, the market share for Japanese makes is expected to increase.

Mazda vehicle retail sales last year recorded 5,240 units. Mazda is aiming to increase sales by expanding its product lineup and strengthening its marketing operations.

The following is Mazda's existing product lineup in Taiwan:
Mazda 323 (produced at Ford Lio Ho Motor Co., Ltd. on a commission basis)
Mazda 626 (produced at AutoAlliance International, Inc.)
E-series (produced at Ford Lio Ho Motor Co., Ltd. on a commission basis)
T-series (completely built unit (CBU) from Japan)

Find more news and information at www.mazda.com