The import of automobiles into Vietnam increased sharply in this month’s first half, with nearly 10,000 cars worth over US$206 million brought into the country from Thailand, Indonesia, and China.

From August 1 to 15, businesses in Vietnam imported a total of 9,906 cars worth $206.25 million from Thailand, Indonesia, and China, according to statistics from the General Department of Vietnam Customs.

Among them were more than 8,800 cars with nine seats and under, valued at nearly $147.6 million.

The car import during this period increased 67.9 percent compared to the second half of July and 58.62 percent year on year.

Many car manufacturers heated up the market by launching a series of new car models, which stimulated the purchasing power of Vietnamese customers.

Toyota Vietnam brought in the Avanza and Veloz Cross models to compete with the Mitsubishi Xpander in the low-cost multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment.

MG imported the MG5 model, while Volkswagen launched the T-Cross and Polo Sport editions.

Audi shipped to Vietnam the Audi A8L model and the brand new E-Tron GT electric car with an expected selling price of over VND6 billion ($256,300).

Despite the positive signs in the production and business situation of the automobile industry, the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers' Association warned that carmakers will still face many difficulties and challenges brought about by the shortage of spare parts and semiconductor chips.

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