A corner of Chu Lai-Trường Hải Auto Manufacture and Assembly Complex in the central province of Quảng Nam. — Photo Đỗ Trưởng

As many as 26,037 cars were sold in January, marking a year-on-year increase of 28 per cent, reports the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (VAMA).

Of this, the sale of passenger cars grew 25 per cent to 18,371 units, while the volume of commercial cars and special-purpose cars reduced by 38 per cent and 78 per cent to 7,363 units and 303 units, respectively.

VAMA’s report shows that the volume of locally-manufactured cars reached 20,586 units, up three per cent compared to the previous month, while 5,451 imported cars were sold, down 30 per cent.

The main reason for the sharp decline in the import of complete built-up units was Decree 116, which came into effect in January. This decree tightens control over quality, technical safety and environment protection of imported autos. This is why many automakers, such as Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi, Ford, Suzuki and GM, have announced that they will temporarily stop importing cars to Viet Nam. — VNS