TSHWANE – A historic 60-year-old automotive manufacturing plant in Rosslyn will continue operating under new ownership after Chinese automaker Chery SA agreed to purchase Nissan’s South African facilities, preserving jobs for the majority of affected workers.
The landmark deal, set to complete in mid-2026 subject to regulatory approvals, will see Chery SA acquire the land, buildings and associated assets of the Nissan facilities, including the nearby stamping plant, whilst offering employment to most Nissan employees on substantially similar terms.
Jordi Vila, Nissan Africa President, said: “Nissan has a long and proud history in South Africa and has been working to find the best solution for our people, our customers and our partners. External factors have had a well-known impact on the utilisation of the Rosslyn plant and its future viability within Nissan.”
Vila added that the agreement would secure employment for the majority of the workforce whilst preserving opportunities for the supplier network, ensuring the Rosslyn site continues contributing to the South African automotive sector.
Following the acquisition, Nissan will continue offering vehicles and services to customers in South Africa, with several new vehicle launches planned for fiscal year 2026, including the Nissan Tekton and Nissan Patrol.
Industry welcomes Chinese investment
The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has welcomed Chery’s investment in South Africa, viewing it as an example for other Chinese manufacturers entering the market.
“MISA believes that the manufacturing and assembling of Chinese vehicles locally is vital for the survival of the automotive industry, including the local manufacturing of parts and components. With Chery taking the lead in this regard, it will not only sustain jobs but create more employment opportunities,” said Martlé Keyter, MISA’s Chief Executive Officer: Operations.
The union, which represents more than 75 000 members in the retail motor industry, also congratulated Nissan for prioritising employee welfare when deciding the plant’s future after 60 years of production.
Dr Roelof Botha, economic adviser to the Optimum Financial Services Group, described the deal as “an excellent example of how responsible employers operate within the turmoil” of increased Chinese competition in global automotive markets.
According to Botha, just short of 100 million vehicles, including trucks and buses, were sold globally in 2025, with South Africa accounting for 0.6% of this total.
