2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-08-20 14:05Core Insights - The Chinese electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing a significant shift towards international markets, with overseas investments surpassing domestic investments for the first time in 2024, reaching $16 billion compared to $15 billion domestically [1] - Battery manufacturing is the primary focus of these overseas investments, accounting for 74% of the total [1] - Southeast Asia has emerged as a key destination for Chinese battery manufacturers, with several companies announcing new investments in the region [1][2] Investment Trends - Major Chinese battery manufacturers, including A123 Systems, CATL, and others, are actively investing in Southeast Asia, with companies like XINWANDA planning to build a battery factory in Vietnam with an investment of up to 2 billion yuan [2] - The total investment for a nickel resource and battery supply chain project in Indonesia, involving CATL and local state-owned enterprises, is estimated at $5.9 billion [2] - In Malaysia, EVE Energy is also planning to invest in a new energy storage battery project with a budget of up to 8.65 billion yuan [2] Market Dynamics - The demand for lithium batteries in Southeast Asia is expected to grow significantly due to government policies promoting electric vehicle adoption [4] - Indonesia is positioning itself as a major player in the EV battery market, with plans to integrate the entire supply chain from nickel mining to battery production [7] - Malaysia's strategic location and supportive government policies are making it an attractive destination for battery manufacturing [8] Challenges and Opportunities - The trade environment has shifted, with the U.S. imposing tariffs on Chinese lithium batteries, prompting companies to seek alternative markets [5][10] - Despite the challenges, the Southeast Asian EV market is projected to grow, with sales expected to reach 204,000 units in 2023 and a compound annual growth rate of 22% from 2024 to 2029 [10]