Chu Lai, 20 August 2026 – The German Business Association (GBA) brought together 40 participants, including GBA Board members and representatives of German and German-related companies, for an industry excursion to THACO Chu Lai, offering first-hand insights into one of Vietnam’s leading industrial and automotive manufacturing ecosystems.
The delegation was impressed not simply by the scale of THACO’s operations, but by its highly integrated manufacturing ecosystem, connecting automotive production with mechanical engineering, supporting industries, logistics and other industrial capabilities. The visit highlighted THACO’s growing focus on advanced manufacturing, automation and technology, as well as its ambition to further develop its industrial value chain.
A key highlight was the cooperation between THACO and BMW, which GBA Chairman – Mr. Alexander Ziehe described as a strong example of successful German–Vietnamese business collaboration. Since becoming BMW’s official importer in Vietnam in 2018, THACO’s partnership with BMW has expanded across local assembly, retail development and the broader automotive ecosystem.
More importantly, the visit opened discussions on concrete opportunities for future cooperation. With many GBA members active in manufacturing and manufacturing-related services, potential synergies range from technology, automation and engineering solutions to components, supporting industries, logistics and supply-chain development.
As highlighted during the exchange, the objective was not only to better understand THACO’s capabilities, but also its future direction and needs, creating opportunities for GBA members to contribute their expertise and develop new partnerships.
The excursion concluded with networking between THACO, BMW and GBA members, laying the groundwork for further business connections and follow-up opportunities.
The visit demonstrated the potential for German companies to become technology, engineering, supply-chain and business partners within THACO’s expanding industrial ecosystem – and highlighted the broader opportunities for German–Vietnamese industrial cooperation in Central Vietnam.
GBA sincerely thanks THACO and BMW for opening their doors to our members and for the insightful exchange.
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