Despite difficulties, Foton continues to grow in the Philippines

MANILA: In 2018, the implementation of the new TRAIN laws worsened the automobile atmosphere in the Philippines. Sales charts of numerous brands took a dip. However, sailing the ship in rough waters is what proves one’s potential.

While other brands slipped, Foton continues to sail and managed to jump from 12th to 9th position concerning best selling vehicle brands for the year 2018.

Rommel Sytin, Foton Motor Philippines Inc. President said, "Last year, I asked my team if getting into the top 10 auto brands is feasible. Sabi nila, kayang-kaya (We can do it, no problem). And true enough, we were able to deliver. I am beyond grateful because my vision for Foton is now turning into reality”.

In Category IV of trucks and buses, Foton traded 5,076 vehicles, which was 4.8 % more than 2017. Talking about the light-duty truck segment, Foton clinched the 3rd stop trailing behind Isuzu and Hino, who finished 1st and 2nd in the race.

“Of course, we hoped for something big for 2018. Although, we did not expect to obtain something as big as being capable of leaping two ranks ahead versus our previous year’s standing in the overall automotive sales,” added Sytin. Foton sold 4,141 vehicles in the passenger and commercial vehicle segments, accounting for 1.04 % of the market. It is an achievement for the brand as it could not even account for 1 % before 2018.

Foton aims at improving its performance in 2019 by using the achievements of 2018 as a strong base and motivation. It will also inaugurate new dealerships across the Philippines along with service centres for passenger vehicles, light-duty trucks, and even heavy-duty vehicles. Sytin went on to add, “We anticipate that Foton Philippines will continue its momentum in 2019.

We will provide more mobility solutions as the Philippines is set to experience the second coming of the industrial revolution with the implementation of the Build, Build, Build program which means that there will be an increasing demand for commercial trucks”.

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