BJ Mercantile Inc. (BJM), a renowned multi-industry conglomerate in the Philippines, is accelerating its footprint in the commercial vehicle sector through a newly inked partnership with Vietnamese automotive giant, Truong Hai Auto Corporation (THACO). The strategic move comes under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that designates BJM as the official distributor of THACO’s trucks and buses in the country, encompassing sales, service, and parts.
Founded in 1974 as an importer of used engines and trucks, BJM has since evolved into a powerhouse group with interests in automotive, logistics, petroleum, cold storage, marine transport, and real estate. With this latest collaboration, the company is set to bolster its commitment to providing innovative and cost-efficient commercial transport solutions across the Philippines.
“We are honoured to partner with THACO and are excited to offer their high-quality trucks and buses to the Philippine market,” said Leilani Lim Tan, Vice President of BJM. “This collaboration aligns with our mission to deliver dependable and cost-effective transportation solutions to support the growth of Filipino industries.”
THACO, established in 1997, is Vietnam’s leading automotive manufacturer and a key player in the ASEAN automotive landscape. Its Chu Lai Truong Hai Industrial Complex is among the region’s most advanced automotive production facilities, rolling out vehicles across categories—from light-duty trucks and full-sized buses to passenger cars.
Designed for tropical climates and built on durable Chinese chassis platforms, THACO vehicles are known for their fuel efficiency, rugged build, and affordability—qualities that align with the growing needs of the Philippine logistics, construction, and transport sectors. The partnership will allow local businesses greater access to a wider range of reliable, heavy-duty vehicles tailored for the country’s challenging road conditions.
The THACO addition enhances BJM’s already diverse automotive lineup, which includes globally respected brands like Scania, Ashok-Leyland, Fuso, and Hongqi. As the commercial transport market continues to evolve, this expansion positions BJM at the forefront of serving the mobility needs of a developing nation with ambitious infrastructure and logistics goals.
With this forward-looking partnership, BJ Mercantile reaffirms its role not just as a business leader, but as a vital enabler of national progress—driving mobility, connectivity, and inclusive growth across the Philippines.
