OICA President Shailesh Chandra Flags Steady but Divergent Global Auto Growth

Speaking at the launch of global sales data by Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles on the sidelines of the Beijing Motor Show, Shailesh Chandra, President of OICA and SIAM, and Managing Director & CEO of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., said the global automotive industry is undergoing significant change, driven by technology, geopolitical pressures, and varying public policies.

He noted that while the industry remains resilient, the operating environment has become more demanding. Automakers are dealing with slower growth in some markets, increased competition in others, and continued uncertainty linked to trade tensions, supply chains, affordability, energy prices, and the pace of electrification.

At the same time, the sector continues to invest in cleaner technologies, digital innovation, and safety, while adapting to diverse consumer expectations and regulatory frameworks across regions.

Global automobile production, including passenger vehicles, trucks, and buses, rose from 92.7 million units in 2024 to 96.4 million units in 2025, marking a growth of 3.9%. Vehicle sales increased from 95.3 million units to 99.8 million units during the same period, registering a growth of 4.7%.

However, the growth trend varied across regions. Production in Asia-Oceania increased by 7.6%, while Europe and the Americas recorded declines of 0.8% and 2.1%, respectively. Production in Africa remained largely stable, with a marginal decline of 0.3%.