A chassis stamped “Made in Ivory Coast” which is now rolling towards Bangkok, this is the symbol of the diplomatic visit to the Abidjan headquarters of Kpandji Automobiles, by the Thai Ambassador to Ivory Coast, Nipa Nirannootune, who intends to mobilize her network for the Ivorian manufacturer. Founded in February 2022 by entrepreneur Nda Ngoran Bernard Kouamé, the Kpandji brand has established itself as the first Ivorian vehicle design and assembly company, with a range ranging from city cars to pick-ups. After having obtained national support, in particular via official visits from political and public figures, the manufacturer is increasing the signals of international openness.

The arrival of Ambassador Nipa Nirannoot is part of a bilateral dynamic already underway between the two countries. The Ivorian and Thai Chambers of Commerce had strengthened their partnership in early 2025, and a second Thailand-Côte d'Ivoire Business Forum was held in Abidjan on July 3, 2026, bringing together 22 Thai companies and Ivorian economic operators. It must be said, the Thai market represents a major challenge, the 10th largest automobile industry in the world, Thailand produces more than 1.4 million vehicles per year and exports two thirds of its production, particularly to ASEAN and the Middle East. For Kpandji, access to this logistics hub could accelerate its export strategy to Asia and strengthen its industrial credibility internationally.

By focusing on economic diplomacy, Kpandji Automobiles confirms its ambition to transform a local success story into an exportable model, with Thailand as the first Asian relay for its growth.