by MTHULISI SIBANDA
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – NISSAN and Chery South Africa have reached a landmark agreement for the acquisition of Nissan South Africa’s manufacturing assets in Rosslyn, securing the future of one of the country’s most historically significant automotive plants.
Subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions, Chery SA will acquire the Rosslyn factory, its land, buildings and the adjacent stamping plant by mid-2026.
The deal represents a major shift in South Africa’s automotive manufacturing landscape, while ensuring continuity at a site that has been central to vehicle production for more than five decades.
Crucially, the agreement provides stability for workers and suppliers.
The majority of Nissan employees associated with the Rosslyn operations will be offered employment by Chery SA, on terms and conditions broadly comparable to their current arrangements.
This commitment is expected to preserve hundreds of jobs and protect the extensive supplier ecosystem that depends on the plant.
The Rosslyn facility is one of South Africa’s most important industrial assets.
It has played a key role in skills development, export manufacturing, and localisation, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and positioning South Africa as a competitive automotive hub.
Its continued operation supports government industrialisation goals and underpins confidence among global vehicle manufacturers considering local investment.
Nissan Africa President Jordi Vila said the agreement followed careful consideration of the long-term sustainability of the plant amid global industry pressures.
He emphasised that the deal safeguards employment while ensuring the site continues to contribute meaningfully to the automotive sector.
Despite the sale of its manufacturing assets, Nissan will maintain a strong presence in South Africa.
The company will continue its sales, distribution and after-sales operations, with several new vehicle launches planned for the 2026 financial year, including the Nissan Tekton and the Nissan Patrol.
The agreement signals both continuity and renewal for Rosslyn, reinforcing South Africa’s status as a strategic automotive manufacturing destination while ushering in a new chapter under Chery SA’s stewardship.
– CAJ News