Changan is set to take direct control of its Philippine operations, confirming the next step for the Chinese automaker following its decision to end its distribution partnership with Inchcape Philippines.
In an official statement dated September 7, Changan International Corporation said it will transition to a direct operating model in the Philippines. Under the new structure, the automaker will assume full responsibility for Sales, Aftersales, Marketing, Dealer Network Development, and overall Customer Experience.
The move provides a clearer picture of Changan’s plans after the company and Inchcape Philippines agreed in August not to renew their distribution partnership. Their existing arrangement is scheduled to enter a transition period through the fourth quarter of 2026. At the time, details of what would follow remained undisclosed.
Changan’s latest announcement now confirms that the brand itself will take charge of its Philippine business, although the company has yet to provide details on its new local subsidiary, dealer structure, or when the direct operation will become fully active.
According to Changan, the shift is intended to strengthen its long-term presence in the Philippine market while providing customers and dealer partners with a more integrated and consistent experience. The company will also oversee its operations across the sales and aftersales chain rather than relying on a third-party distributor.
For existing Changan owners, perhaps the most important part of the announcement is the assurance that the transition should not disrupt current support. Changan and Inchcape Philippines said they will continue working together during the transition to maintain uninterrupted support and service for customers and the dealer network.
Changan also acknowledged Inchcape Philippines’ contribution since the partnership began in 2023, particularly in establishing and growing the brand locally. The automaker thanked Inchcape and its team for their work with customers and dealer partners.
The development follows a broader pattern in the Philippine automotive industry, where some Chinese brands have moved toward greater direct involvement in their local operations.
Autocar’s Take
Changan taking direct control of its Philippine operations is a significant development, but the real test will come after the transition. Moving away from a distributor-led setup gives Changan greater control over its sales, aftersales, dealer development, and customer experience. That can be an advantage, particularly in a market where aftersales support and dealer reach can strongly influence buyer confidence.
For existing owners, the assurance of uninterrupted service is important. Still, customers will ultimately want to see what changes on the ground. A stronger dealer network, dependable parts supply, consistent aftersales support, and a clearer product strategy will determine whether the Chinese carmaker’s direct operating model becomes a meaningful step forward.
