Bahrain’s Automotive Market Witnesses Remarkable Growth in 2024

TDT | Manama

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The automotive market in Bahrain experienced a remarkable surge in 2024, with customs data revealing that nearly 35,873 vehicles were imported into the Kingdom between January and November. The total value of these imports reached BD201.8 million (approximately $535 million), underscoring the sector's robust expansion.

Continued Upward Trend

This significant increase in vehicle imports marks another step in the upward trajectory observed in Bahrain’s automotive industry. The numbers continue to build on the substantial growth recorded in 2023, reflecting a steady rise in demand and trade.

China and Japan Lead the Market

China and Japan emerged as dominant players in Bahrain’s automotive import sector in 2024, leading in both volume and value.

• China secured the top spot in terms of volume, supplying 8,978 vehicles, which accounted for 25% of total imports, valued at BD50.2 million.
• Japan closely followed with 8,877 vehicles (24.7% of the total), but it far exceeded China in terms of value, contributing BD100.1 million to Bahrain’s automotive market. This made Japan the highest-value exporter of vehicles to the Kingdom.

Other Major Contributors

• India ranked third, exporting 5,466 vehicles valued at BD24.1 million.
• The United States held the fourth position, supplying 2,253 vehicles worth BD27.5 million.
• Thailand rounded out the top five, with 1,923 vehicles valued at BD10.8 million.

Countries like South Korea and the United Kingdom also played significant roles in supporting Bahrain’s growing automotive market.

Strengthening Trade Relationships

The data reflects Bahrain’s strong and diverse international automotive trade ties. The import figures for 2024 surpassed the 34,400 vehicles imported in 2023, which itself was a significant jump from approximately 27,300 vehicles in 2022.

This sustained growth highlights the Kingdom’s expanding demand for automobiles and reinforces its position as a dynamic hub for international automotive trade.

As Bahrain’s automotive market continues to thrive, the Kingdom's focus on fostering global trade relationships remains pivotal to sustaining this upward momentum.