Thailand's Deputy PM and Finance Minister (Dr. Ekachai Nitithanpraphas) will announce details of a new excise tax on imported vehicles in September 2026, with implementation slated for early 2027. The measure aims to protect domestic EV manufacturers (currently ~8–9 plants operating) by raising tariffs on non-locally-produced cars, sidestepping FTA constraints via excise rather than import duties. The government will offer lower tax rates for foreign companies that establish Thai manufacturing facilities and invest in R&D, using Thailand as a regional export hub. A 3–4 month adjustment period will be granted before enforcement; tax rates are still under discussion.