Chinese automakers are stepping up efforts to expand local production facilities in Africa. Chery has announced plans to acquire a former Nissan plant in South Africa and produce PHEVs and BEVs locally.
According to an article published by the Chinese-language website of Radio France Internationale, Chinese automakers are exploring plant construction in Africa and seeking to reduce their reliance on exports by focusing on local production. Africa is considered to have strong growth potential, supported by rapid urbanization, the expansion of the middle class and government support measures.
Chery Automobile, China’s largest vehicle exporter, announced in July plans to acquire Nissan’s former plant in Rosslyn near Pretoria, South Africa, and begin producing PHEVs and BEVs, including models under the Jetour brand. The move will reduce reliance on imports and advance production closer to local consumers.
Beijing Automotive Group (BAIC) owns a manufacturing and assembly plant in Qheberha, South Africa, while Great Wall Motor (GWM) also has local assembly and parts distribution capabilities. Analysts say the trend could create jobs, support the development of local supply chains and accelerate EV adoption, while infrastructure shortages and policy uncertainty remain challenges.
South Africa, Morocco, Kenya, Ethiopia and Ghana, among others, are seen as potentially attractive locations for attracting EV investment from China, while Morocco offers the advantage of proximity to the European market. Zimbabwe’s lithium resources could support the battery supply chain, and local production could help avoid tariffs and lower vehicle prices. Plans to build Africa’s first large-scale battery gigafactory in Morocco have also been mentioned.
The trend is part of a strategy shaped by slowing demand in China and trade barriers in Europe and the United States. Chinese automakers are expected to advance their global expansion by increasing the proportion of vehicles produced locally.