Malaysia's leading automaker Proton is keen to enter India's huge and competitive automarket, and

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is scouting for a partner, a Malaysian minister has said.

"The Indian market is huge but very competitive as there are many cheap home-grown brands produced in the country. If Proton can penetrate India, then it will be able to succeed anywhere," Malaysia's International Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Mukhriz Dr Mahathir was quoted as saying by Bernama.

Mukhriz, while speaking to reporters here yesterday, said Proton can attempt to enter India initially with a small number of cars.

"This is a challenge for Proton and we hope it can partner a company which is willing to invest and provide maintenance services.

"This is an important factor as it will have a significant impact in the Indian market," the minister said, adding that Proton's impending venture into India could be facilitated with the signing of the free trade agreement by both countries next year.

Founded in 1983 under the direction of the former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Proton was Malaysia's only carmaker until the establishment of its competitor and arch-rival Perodua in 1993.

Proton exports cars to the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Australia and the company is aggressively marketing its cars in several other countries including the West Asia.