Chery South Africa is set to acquire Nissan’s local manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, in 2026.
Nissan opened its Rosslyn production plant, where the Japanese automaker has built new vehicles for six decades, in 1966. Now, this historic assembly facility is set to change hands, with Chery and Nissan reaching an agreement for the Chinese automaker to acquire the South African-based plant.
This move comes as Chinese manufacturers face growing pressure, with new guidelines from China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) prohibiting below-cost vehicle pricing, along with tighter export rules taking effect in 2026. While these measures limit deep discounts in markets like South Africa, they have also intensified talks about localised production as a strategic response to possible import duty increases being considered by the South African government.
While some details are still being worked out, including regulatory approvals, by mid-2026 Chery South Africa will take ownership of the land, buildings, and associated manufacturing assets of the Nissan facilities, including its nearby stamping plant. Nissan says the majority of its employees will be offered employment by Chery SA under terms and conditions that closely mirror their current contracts.
Nissan Africa President Jordi Vila 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.”
“Through this agreement, we’re able to secure employment for the majority of our workforce, thereby also preserving opportunities for our supplier network. This move also ensures that the Rosslyn site will continue contributing to the South African automotive sector,” Vila added.
Nissan will continue to offer vehicles and remains committed to servicing customers in South Africa, as well as launching several new vehicles in 2026, including the Nissan Tekton and a new Patrol.
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