Toyota Thailand Denies Dodging Tariffs on Prius
The Japanese automaker is irate over allegations it claims to be importing parts for Prius manufacturing in Thailand when it really is bringing in completely built-up vehicles.
Toyota Thailand is threatening lawsuits against a group claiming the automaker is falsifying import documents.
The Japanese manufacturer is irate over a claim by a group calling itself the Committee Nation Associate Anti-Corruption Network alleging Toyota states it is importing parts for Prius manufacturing in Thailand when it really is importing completely built-up units that are subject to a higher tariff rate.
It also alleges a Prius import declaration covering 2010 to 2012 is misleading.
The network filed its complaint with the government’s Office of the Ombudsman seeking an investigation.
Toyota Thailand Senior Vice President Vudhigorn Suriyachantananont issues a statement hurriedly translated to English and emailed to the media that the allegation tarnishes the company’s image and it is ready to take legal action if necessary.
In its statement, Toyota says it has imported the Prius components for assembly alongside components purchased in Thailand under a complex manufacturing processes.
The Prius assembly line is at the Gateway plant in Chachoengsao, 55 miles (90 km) east of Bangkok, and Toyota says it has imported only Prius parts since the production line opened in 2010.
“Toyota Motor Thailand will have to use the legal rights to the people who continue abusing the company’s image,” the statement says. “For 50 years, Toyota has upheld transparency and corporate governance and it has been loyal to the Thai government and customers.”
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