Chinese brands take center stage at auto show

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April 15, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Chinese automotive brands dominated this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) and highlighted their electrified vehicle offerings, showing a shift in exhibitor mix from last year’s participation.

During the 2026 MIAS held from April 9 to 12 at the World Trade Center, nearly all of the automotive brands at the exhibition floor were Chinese except for one.

Participants in this year’s MIAS were BYD, Denza, DFSK, FOTON, GWM, MG, GAC, Chery, Changan, 212, Geely, Jetour, ROX, Omoda and Jaecoo, Bestune, Aito, BAIC, Lynk and Co., Radar and Deepal.

While Kia was the only non-Chinese brand in this year’s show, it also showcased electrified vehicle models.

Brands that took part last year but not in this year’s MIAS include Mitsubishi and Isuzu.

Both Mitsubishi and Isuzu said they skipped this year’s MIAS as they prepare to take part in another show, the Philippine International Motor Show being organized by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. this year.

This year’s MIAS highlighted the evolving landscape of mobility, including the strong demand for new energy vehicles.

In the MIAS social media page, event organizer Worldbex Services International (WSI) said that this year’s show achieved a milestone as it attracted 180,600 visitors, surpassing last year’s 170,000 mark.

“The surge in interest around new energy vehicles reflects today’s realities with rising fuel costs,” the MIAS organizer said.

“Even more encouraging, many brands are reporting record bookings and reservations, which is a strong sign of confidence in the market,” WSI said.

WSI founding chairman Joseph Ang said that electrified vehicles are expected to increase and account for about 80 percent of the country’s total automotive sales.

Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said that while he could not say when this would happen, the Philippine market is moving in that direction.

“We have the demand. The problem in the Philippines now when you buy an electric car is the waiting time. So really the demand is here and will grow even further,” Rodolfo said.