Expand into Southeast Asia: Tesla (TSLA.US) is reportedly in talks to build a factory in Thailand.

According to reports, Tesla (TSLA.US) is in talks with the Thai government about the possibility of establishing production facilities in the country. An official from the Thai Prime Minister's Office stated that Tesla visited the country for a site inspection at the end of last year. It is understood that Thailand, as the largest automotive production and export country in Southeast Asia, aims to become a major electric vehicle production center in the region. To support this goal, the Thai government will provide Tesla with 100% green energy to operate a factory capable of producing electric vehicles or batteries. It is worth noting that Thailand has already attracted investment commitments of over $1.44 billion from Chinese electric car manufacturers. BYD Company Limited has established a dealer network in Thailand and is the third largest sales company in the Thai automotive industry based on market share. Following a negative growth situation in the Thai automotive market in 2023, it is expected to see a 3% growth this year. As of the time of writing, Tesla's stock price fell by 1.28% in pre-market trading on Monday. The company has declined by about 19% so far this year, trading well below the 200-day moving average. SeekingAlpha's quantitative rating for Tesla is "Hold", with a high rating for the company's profitability and growth potential balancing out the lower ratings for valuation and earnings adjustments.