Proton Discussing Possible JV in Turkey

Proton begins talks with a Turkish auto maker to assemble Proton cars in Turkey in a proposal that could lead to a joint venture to develop a Turkish car.

Proton adviser Mahathir Mohamad, a former Malaysian prime minister, says negotiations will advance once Proton is officially taken private by DRB-Hicom later this month. Mahathir is acting as a consultant in the transaction.

“The idea is initially, of course, to probably assemble Proton cars there and eventually develop a Turkish car through the collaboration,” Mahathir tells the government’s Bernama news agency. “At the moment, they are already talking to each other.”

Malaysia used to export Proton cars to Turkey, Mahathir says. “When we get a good partner…Malaysia should also be able to export more Proton cars to Turkey,” he adds.

A proposed free-trade agreement between Malaysia and Turkey, expected to be signed this year, would strengthen trade, investment and economic ties between the countries, he says.

“Turkey can become a hub, as it is centrally located,” Mahathir says. “It is very near to Arab countries and Central Asian countries. Thus, by going to Turkey, we can have access to other countries surrounding Turkey.”