Proton is intent on growing its volumes as quickly as possible and while its domestic sales are increasing all the time, it is also giving more attention to sales in other countries. Additionally, it is also in discussions with some business partners in some countries to have its cars assembled locally. Like in Malaysia, there would be preferential tax imposed which will be beneficial to Proton as it can then price its cars more attractively.

First CKD shipment to Kenya
Recently, the carmaker shipped 30 units of the Saga to Kenya in CKD (completely knocked-down) form, meaning the many parts were sent there as kits and will be assembled by Simba Corporation, a diversified conglomerate with a long history of sales and assembly experience in the automotive industry.

Proton’s decision to export the Saga in a CKD form was made following close consultation with its Kenyan partner, Simba. Aside from attracting lower taxes by being locally assembled, CKD units will help spur development in Kenya’s automotive manufacturing industry.

“While strengthening Proton’s domestic position is critical to truly be acknowledged as an international carmaker, we need to see our products in places as diverse as Bangkok, Islamabad, Cairo and now, Nairobi. On a national level, this will also increase the value of trade between Malaysia and Kenya and help to contribute to the creation of jobs in Kenya’s automotive industry,” said Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy CEO of Proton.

Kenya is not a new market for Proton and in earlier years, it was among the 50+ countries where Proton sold its cars. However, the volumes were not big and when the 2000s began, the company reduced its focus on export markets. It is only in recent years that export plans have been formulated again and with new models in the pipeline, export sales are to become increasingly important.

Proton’s export offensive underway with updated models launched in Brunei