Vehicle sales decline 4% in January-July

MANILA, Philippines – Sales of the local auto industry declined by four percent during the first seven months of the year from a year ago as the industry continues to grapple with the after effects of the twin disasters in Japan.

Joint data released by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed that total industry sales stood at 81,550 units during the seven-month period, a four-percent decline from 84,905 units sold during the same period in 2010.

“Despite the residual effect of the supply limitation from Japan, which was reflected in the year to date decline of four percent, the automotive industry remained focused in its efforts to perk up the market and cope up with the demand. Such efforts reflect the confidence of the industry that this temporary supply situation would come to pass soon,” CAMPI said.

Sales of both passenger car (PC) and commercial vehicle (CV) likewise declined. PC sales went down by 4.2 percent while CV sales decreased by 3.8 percent.

For July 11 alone, sales posted a 5.2 percent increase to 11,550 units from June’s 10,978 units. The growth can be attributed to back order deliveries coupled with continuous and aggressive promotion and introduction of new models.

Total monthly sales of CV reached 7,782 units in July up to 10.4 percent from June’s 7,050 units. The bulk of the growth in commercial vehicle sales came from the positive performance of AUV and light commercial vehicles.

CAMPI has still not issued a revised target that will take into account the Japanese situation. CAMPI said the auto industry is constantly assessing its sales projection for 2011 taking into account the latest performance and other external factors that would have an impact on the market.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp remained the number one in terms of market share with sales of 29,358 units or 36 percent market share.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. followed with 19,705 units or 24.16 percent of the market share and Honda Cars Philippines Inc. with sales of 7,992 units. –Ma. Elisa P. Osorio (The Philippine Star)