Vehicle sales skid in September as reality bites after GST tax holiday


The Statistics Department said on Wednesday the abolishment of GST led to the increase in some of the index of the main groups in June.

KUALA LUMPUR: Vehicle sales fell in September after the Goods and Services Tax (GST) tax holiday ended on Aug 31 while stocks of some vehicle distributors were depleted, according to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

It said on Monday sales volume in September fell 23% or 9,715 units from a year ago to 31,241 units. They comprise of 27,022 passenger vehicles and 4,219 commercial vehicles.

“Sales volume in September 2018 were depleted following the overwhelming demand during the GST tax holiday period,” it added.

The MMA said the total industry vehicles (TIV) from January to September were up 7% at 454,971 units from the 426,678 units in the previous corresponding period.

It said 37,000 vehicles rolled off the assembly lines, of which 33,436 were passenger vehicles in September. A year ago, the number was 38,213 units.

Year-to-date, the number of vehicles manufacturerd was 420,498 units compared with 381,171 units in the previous corresponding period.

On the outlook for October, the MAA said sales volune was expected to be maintained at the September level.

“Much of the demands was fulfilled during the GST tax holiday period and also adjustment to post-tax holiday environment,” it said.

 

Win a prize this Mother's Day by subscribing to our annual plan now! T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Business News

Oil gains 1% on hopes of firmer demand
JPMorgan investors weigh CEO Dimon’s strategy, succession plan
Muhibbah rides on Cambodian tourism uptick
Feytech gears up for expansion to meet growing demand
Ready to rise up the ranks again
SC working overtime to combat spread of scams
Russia and Malaysia sign tax agreement
MGB ACHIEVES 23% PROFIT SURGE IN 1Q24
GDP up 4.2% in 1Q24
Chinese firms invest in ‘green’ jet fuel

Others Also Read