Chinese automaker Chery has inaugurated a manufacturing facility in Rosslyn, just north of Pretoria, signaling its shift from importer to local manufacturer in South Africa. The move highlights the company’s long-term commitment to the South African market and aims to strengthen its role within the country’s automotive industry.
At the launch event held last week, Chery Chairman Yin Tongyue emphasized the significance of the investment, describing it as a step toward becoming a longstanding partner in South Africa’s industrial development. “We have moved from being an importer to a manufacturer, and from a market participant to a long-term partner in South Africa’s industrial story,” Yin said.
Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng underscored the symbolic nature of the partnership, noting how the Rosslyn plant—an established factory with historical importance in South Africa’s automotive sector—and Chery, an emerging Chinese automaker, are joining forces. According to Wu, the collaboration exemplifies the deepening economic ties between China and South Africa and is expected to enhance bilateral cooperation within the automotive industry.
Chery plans to commence production at the Rosslyn plant by mid-2027. Initial output targets are set at 15,000 vehicles during the third and fourth quarters of that year. At full operational capacity, the facility is expected to assemble up to 50,000 vehicles annually operating on a single-shift basis.
The company has committed to retaining all 692 current employees at the plant while generating approximately 3,000 new direct and indirect jobs across manufacturing, supply chain management, and related services. Additionally, Chery intends to increase local content in its vehicles and develop the Rosslyn site into a comprehensive automotive hub. This development is expected to integrate research and development, manufacturing, supply chain operations, and skills development initiatives.
Chery’s investment is part of a larger strategy to position South Africa as its central hub for manufacturing, exports, research and development, and other operational activities across the African continent.
Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Wuhu, Anhui province, China, Chery currently operates in more than 130 countries and regions worldwide.