Luxury car imports this year are expected to decrease markedly to less than 100,000 units, down 20% due to changes in the tariff structure and a lack of clarity in auto verification procedures.

Thailand's first Auto Import Expo organiser, Chaturon Komolmit said sales of premium cars this year will likely drop below 100,000 units, down 20% from about 140,000-150,000 units sold annually in the past two years.

Mr. Charuron said it was predicted earlier that sales of luxury cars would improve by year-end but ongoing political tensions are among the factors which worry luxury car buyers.

Premium car sales, however, are expected to improve next year and even sooner if political tension eases. Mr. Chaturon added that the overall sales of more than 100,000 luxury vehicles a year is considered satisfactory for importers.