Bangkok Post, Thailand, Business Briefs Column.

Oct. 2--AUTO, PARTS EXPORTS UP 43.3 PERCENT TO AUGUST: Exports of Thai-made automobiles and parts rose year-on-year by 43.3 percent to 68.57 billion baht in the first eight months of this year, according to MMC Sittipol Co.

Exports of automobiles alone totalled 111,494 units worth 53.11 billion baht, up 24.3 percent while those of engines and other components were worth 15.47 billion baht, up 19.1 percent .

Mitsubishi, distributed by MMC Sittipol, retained the lead in vehicles with 35,833 units worth 16.97 billion baht shipped. General Motors, distributor of the Chevrolet Zafira came second with 31,396 units worth 18.63 billion baht. AutoAlliance (Thailand) Co, the Ford-Mazda joint venture, was third with 27,528 units worth 10.38 billion baht.

SAMURAI BONDS TO PAY DOWN YEN LOANS: The Finance Ministry has finalised a plan to issue 39.25 billion yen in Samurai Bonds to refinance loans from Japanese creditors to state enterprises.

The bonds, equivalent to 14.525 billion baht, would be used to repay debt owed by the Electrical Generating Authority of Thailand, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority, the Petroleum Authority of Thailand and the Telephone Organisation of Thailand.

In addition to cost savings from low Japanese interest rates, the bond issue would give the government an opportunity to explain to foreign investors Thailand's economic situation and future policies, officials said.

The Public Debt Management Office has also suggested that Samurai bonds be issued to help finance two new aircraft purchases by Thai Airways International valued at $300 million.