Chinese automaker Chery has officially taken over Nissan's manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, marking a major milestone in its African expansion strategy as Chinese carmakers intensify their global push amid slowing growth and fierce competition at home.
The handover, completed on Friday, follows a deal announced in January and positions South Africa as the centrepiece of Chery's long-term ambitions on the continent. The company said it plans to transform the Rosslyn facility into its African hub for manufacturing, exports, research and development (R&D), and regional operations, Reuters reported.
"Our long-term goal is to turn the Rosslyn plant into a complete auto center with research and development, supply chain operations, and training, supporting Chery's expanding presence and the goal of exceeding 100,000 annual vehicle sales in South Africa," Chery South Africa Vice President Charlie Zhang said.
Boost for local manufacturing
The acquisition comes at a pivotal moment for Africa's automotive industry. South Africa remains the continent's largest vehicle manufacturing hub, accounting for the bulk of Africa's automotive exports and serving as a production base for global brands including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Toyota, Isuzu and Volkswagen.
