The German automaker Audi, the high-end subsidiary of Volkswagen, is to build a new plant in either Malaysia, Indonesia or Thailand, Audi said on Thursday.

"We are at the moment considering opting for either Malaysia, Indonesia or Thailand," a company spokesman said, adding that a decision would be taken next month.

He said Audi could either invest on its own or enter into a joint venture, possibly with Malaysian automaker Proton, with which Volkswagen is currently negotiating a cooperation accord.

Audi is already involved in a joint venture in China and is active in Thailand as well.