Côte d’Ivoire’s automotive industry is expanding beyond West Africa as Kpandji Automobiles explores opportunities in Thailand.
Thai Ambassador Visits Kpandji
Kpandji Automobiles hosted Thailand’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Nipa Nirannoot, on July 4, 2026, alongside a Thai Ministry of Commerce representative and business leaders. The visit focused on strengthening economic, commercial and industrial cooperation between the two countries.
At Kpandji’s Abidjan headquarters, the company presented its development journey and showcased four leading models. Ambassador Nirannoot welcomed its ambitions and offered to use her network to identify business opportunities for Kpandji in Thailand.
From Local Assembly to International Markets
Founded in 2022 by entrepreneur N’da Bernard Kouamé, Kpandji has emerged as an important Ivorian vehicle assembler. The company promotes a range that includes passenger vehicles and pickups and has built its profile around the development of an Ivorian automotive brand.
However, Kpandji’s current production model involves assembling vehicles in Côte d’Ivoire from completely knocked-down (CKD) kits supplied by Chinese manufacturer ZX Auto. This distinction is important as the company works toward greater local industrial integration and international expansion.
Thailand Opens a Strategic Door
The Thai market could provide Kpandji with access to one of Southeast Asia’s major automotive manufacturing and export ecosystems. Thailand’s established automotive supply chain, industrial capabilities and regional trade connections could create opportunities for partnerships, technology cooperation and market development.
The engagement also follows broader efforts to deepen commercial relations between Côte d’Ivoire and Thailand. The July 2026 meeting therefore represents more than a diplomatic visit. It signals Kpandji’s ambition to move from a locally established automotive assembler toward a company with a broader international footprint.
For Côte d’Ivoire, the development also highlights the potential for economic diplomacy to support the country’s emerging automotive ecosystem and connect local companies with international markets.
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