Thailand’s domestic car sales fell 2.17% year-on-year to a four-month low of 48,282 units in February 2026, reversing January’s 53.77% surge, according to the Federation of Thai Industries. This was the first annual decline since March 2025. Surapong Paisitpatanapong attributed the slowdown to subdued economic growth, tighter auto lending conditions, delayed consumer purchases, and higher energy costs. He also cited the escalating war in the Middle East, which has driven up oil prices, increased transport and insurance costs, and weighed on global confidence. By segment, BEV sales fell 18.56% to 6,168 units, while pickup truck sales slipped 1.41% to 12,998 units, although there are emerging signs of stabilization. Meanwhile, car production rose 3.43% year-on-year to 117,952 units, supported by exports and a modest recovery in pickup demand. Thailand’s car exports were broadly unchanged at 81,195 units, with Middle East demand holding up, but shipments facing delays due to security risks around the Strait of Hormuz.