Proton resumes export with first shipment to Jordan

IDEAS economist Adli Amirullah said on Tuesday the future of automotive policy still remains uncertain.

KUALA LUMPUR: Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Sdn Bhd (Proton) is resuming its export of cars in the second half of 2018.

The carmaker said in a press statement that it has resumed exporting cars to the Middle East, marking the first time it has done so since formalising its partnership with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group.

The first shipment of 453 cars will arrive in Aqaba in Jordan where they will then be distributed to Iraq and other neighbouring countries.

"This ceremony marks a starting point for Proton as we resume and ramp up shipments to the Middle East in the coming months. 

"It’s also the first export shipment since the partnership with Geely commenced and we expect our export market to have a positive outlook in the future so be prepared for more such announcements from as early as August this year,” said Datuk Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy CEO of Proton, during a flag-off ceremony in Port Klang today.

According to the press statement, Proton's product quality has improved since the implemention of the Global Customer Product Audit system on its product processes.

Dr Li Chungrong, CEO of Proton, said the Middle East markets hold high regard for products from Islamic countries like Malaysia. 

“The demand for cars will grow as their economies develop and will help fuel the growth of our export business. The ASEAN market however will remain as the main priority for PROTON’s export business so we are excited about the opportunities available in the region," he said.