China’s Chery takes over former Nissan factory in South Africa

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, July 4, 2026

China’s Chery Automobile has taken over the former Nissan manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, with plans to upgrade the facility and start production by mid-2027. This acquisition aims to establish Chery as a major player in Africa’s automotive industry, potentially creating nearly 3,000 jobs and boosting local economic growth.

China’s Chery Automobile Co. Ltd. officially assumed control of the former Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, on Friday. The acquisition, first announced in January, marks a significant step in Chery’s expansion into the African market. The company plans to invest millions of dollars in upgrading the plant and installing new machinery, with production expected to commence by mid-2027.

Chery, recognized as China’s largest car exporter, aims to develop the Rosslyn facility into a central hub for its African operations. This will encompass manufacturing, exports, research and development, and regional administrative functions. The company’s vice-president, Charlie Zhang, emphasized the strategic importance of the site for growing Chery’s presence in the continent.

Under the new ownership, all 692 existing employees at the plant will be retained. Additionally, Chery projects that the initiative will generate close to 3,000 jobs, including both direct and indirect positions spanning manufacturing, supply chains, and related service industries. During a formal handover ceremony at the Rosslyn plant, Zhang outlined the firm’s ambition to transform the site into a comprehensive automotive center. This would include research and development capabilities, supply chain activities, and training facilities designed to support local operations.

Chery’s broader goal is to surpass 100,000 annual vehicle sales within South Africa, leveraging the Rosslyn plant as a key asset to achieve this target. The move reflects a broader trend of Chinese automotive companies increasing their investment footprint in Africa, seeking to capitalize on growing demand and emerging market opportunities.

The transition comes after Nissan’s decision to exit the South African market, leaving the facility available for takeover. Industry observers note that Chery’s investment could stimulate the local automotive sector and contribute to economic growth through job creation and enhanced industrial capacity. However, the success of the venture will depend on effective implementation of the planned upgrades and the company’s ability to establish a competitive foothold in the region’s automotive market.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.