NEV Cooperation Among RCEP Members Fuels Green Development in China

Hefei – The future of mobility across Asia took a major step forward as member nations of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) deepened collaboration in the electric vehicle (EV) and clean energy sectors at a high-level forum in Hefei, China.

The RCEP Local Governments and Friendship Cities Cooperation Forum, held from June 4 to 6 in Anhui Province, brought together around 300 delegates from all 15 RCEP member states. Focused on building sustainable supply chains, particularly in new energy vehicles (NEVs) and photovoltaic industries, the dialogue resulted in 27 cooperation agreements spanning trade, technology, and sister-city partnerships.

Industry leaders showcased significant progress in EV cooperation. Indonesia’s PT SGMW Motor, backed by China’s Wuling, recently celebrated the production of its 3-millionth EV globally. Geely has also completed trial production of its EX5 model in Indonesia, with full-scale manufacturing set to begin soon.

In Cambodia, Chinese EV giant BYD has launched the construction of a plant in Sihanoukville’s Special Economic Zone, aiming to produce 10,000 passenger vehicles annually by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, Chinese battery manufacturers like CALB, Gotion High-Tech, and SVOLT are scaling up operations in Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond, laying the groundwork for localized supply chains.

According to forum speakers, this marks a significant shift from simple EV exports to integrated regional manufacturing hubs that include battery component development and assembly. For instance, SAIC-GM-Wuling’s Indonesia factory now supplies both vehicles and parts, supporting the country’s auto industry upgrade.

The growing interest in clean mobility is supported by national targets. Cambodia plans to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 and derive 70% of its energy from renewables by 2030. Thailand aims for EVs to comprise 30% of its total car output by the same year, with carbon neutrality targeted by mid-century.

Forum participants stressed the broader significance of these partnerships. “Together, we represent over 2.3 billion people and nearly 30 percent of global GDP — this comes with enormous responsibility,” said Bhokin Bhalakula, former Thai National Assembly President.

Hefei, the host city, is also emerging as a green powerhouse. In 2024 alone, it produced over 1.37 million NEVs and posted an industrial chain value of 260 billion yuan. Its solar and energy storage sectors have grown to over 180 billion yuan in value.

In the first four months of 2025, China’s NEV output rose 48.3% year-on-year, reaching 4.43 million units, with sales closely trailing at 4.3 million. This accounted for nearly 43% of all new car sales. – News Agency