Malaysian car maker Proton looks for partner in India
Recently, Malaysia's International Trade and Industry Deputy Minister, Dr Mahathir was quoted as saying in a leading Malaysian news paper, "The Indian market is huge but very competitive as there are many cheap home-grown brands produced in the country. If Proton can penetrate India, then it will be able to succeed anywhere." As per Mr. Mukhriz, the company will be entering India with a small product portfolio and is looking for a partner in the country that is willing to spend and provide maintenance services. The prospective India venture of the company could be sped up next year, when India and Malaysia will sign a free trade agreement. Proton is Malaysia’s the oldest car maker which was founded in year 1983 under the direction of the former Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad. The company at present exports its cars to a number of foreign countries including United Kingdom, South Africa, and Australia.