Chinese automaker Chery has taken another major step in expanding its global footprint with the opening of a new vehicle manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, near Pretoria. The facility will serve as the foundation for localized vehicle production and a key component of the company’s long-term strategy to strengthen its presence in the African market.
Chery Chairman Yin Tongyue said the company is evolving from being an importer to becoming a long-term industrial partner of South Africa. According to him, the investment reflects Chery’s commitment to supporting the country’s automotive industry while expanding its manufacturing capabilities across the region.
Mass production at the facility is scheduled to begin in mid-2027. During the initial phase, the plant is expected to produce around 15,000 vehicles, with annual production capacity increasing to 50,000 units under a single-shift operation once the facility reaches full capacity.
The investment is also expected to deliver significant economic benefits. Chery will retain 692 existing jobs while creating nearly 3,000 additional direct and indirect positions across manufacturing, logistics, supply chains, and related services. Over time, the facility is expected to evolve into a comprehensive automotive hub integrating manufacturing, research and development, supply chain operations, and workforce training.
The company emphasized that the investment forms part of its broader strategy to transform South Africa into Chery’s regional headquarters for Africa. From this base, the automaker plans to expand manufacturing, exports, research and development, and operational management across African markets.
The opening of the new plant reflects the accelerating global expansion of Chinese automakers. As vehicle exports continue to grow rapidly, Chery is strengthening its international presence by focusing not only on exports but also on localizing production in strategically important markets around the world.
