Vehicle sales in May rev up on new models, says trade body

Manufacturing sector output expanded moderately by 4.1% in November 2015 after registering a strong growth of 6.2% in October 2015.

KUALA LUMPUR: Vehicle sales in May rose 18% to 50,600 units from a month ago, says the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), which expects June sales to stay at the same level.

The MAA said on Friday total industry volume (TIV) in May had increased by 7,854 units from April. It was also up 13% or 5,492 units higher than a year ago.

It said the higher sales were due to the pre-Hari Raya festive season boost and launch of new models.

The TIV from January-May was 234,186 units, up 7% from the 218,121 units in the previous corresponding period.

Production of vehciles dopped in May to 47.474 units from 47.650 a year ago. Year-to-date, the production was slightly higher at 223,139 units compared with 222,035 units a year ago.

On the outlook for vehicle sales for June, the MAA said it expected the sales to be maintained at the May level due to the continuation of the Hari Raya festive season promotional campaigns.

Another factor, it said, would be due to shorter working month in June.