Malaysian Automaker Proton Eyes Kazakhstan Production With Allur

Malaysian automaker Proton is considering launching production in Kazakhstan in partnership with Andrey Lavrentyev’s Allur group, Orda.kz reports.

Proton sees Kazakhstan as a way to localize production in an EAEU member state and enter the union’s market. The country could also serve as an investment hub. According to Baiterek, Proton CEO Li Chunrong discussed practical aspects of a joint project with Lavrentyev, although no further details were disclosed.

The Kazakh delegation led by Rustam Karagoyshin also showed interest in Proton’s e.MAS electric vehicle lineup, which is produced at the Automotive High-Tech Valley cluster. It remains unclear whether Kazakhstan is considering production of that specific line.

In November last year, Proton and Baiterek signed a memorandum of cooperation. At the time, officials said it was aimed at creating a national automaker in Kazakhstan.

Founded in 1983, Proton is Malaysia’s largest car manufacturer. The company initially produced updated Mitsubishi models before moving on to develop its own vehicles. Since 2017, 49.9% of Proton has been owned by China’s Geely.

Allur, meanwhile, is the leader of Kazakhstan’s car market. The company produces and sells Kia, Škoda, Jetour, JAC and Chevrolet vehicles. Its production capacity stands at 127,600 cars per year. Allur belongs to businessman Andrey Lavrentyev, who also owns the metallurgical holding Qarmet, formerly ArcelorMittal.

Original author: Alexey Afonsky

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