Nissan has just announced that Chery will purchase its factory in South Africa.
The carmaker operates a production facility in Rosslyn on the outskirts of Pretoria in Gauteng, which manufactures the Navara bakkie.
However, Nissan has been in dire financial straits for several years now and is currently in the process of shutting down seven factories worldwide, including two in its home country of Japan.
This includes Nissan Africa’s Rosslyn plant; however, the company has now signed an agreement with Chery South Africa to hand over the keys to the factory and its nearby stamping facility.
“Nissan and Chery SA have reached agreement on the acquisition of Nissan’s manufacturing assets in Rosslyn, South Africa,” said Nissan.
“Subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions, including regulatory approvals, Chery SA will purchase the land, buildings and associated assets of the Nissan facilities, including of its nearby stamping plant, in mid-2026.”
The companies stated that this acquisition will ensure that the majority of Nissan employees are offered new positions by Chery SA on “substantially similar terms and conditions as today.”
“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,” it said.
The president of Nissan Africa, Jordi Vila, reassured consumers that this transition does not mark the end of Nissan’s activities in South Africa, as the automaker will continue to sell its vehicles here.
He said that 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.”
Nissan is fully committed to the South African market and has several new vehicle launches planned for the 2026 fiscal year, including the new Tekton and Patrol.
Chery expanding its presence in South Africa
Chery is one of the fastest-growing car brands in South Africa, selling thousands of units per month across its various marques.
It is the seventh-best-selling carmaker in the country, but its sub-brands – Jetour and Omoda Jaecoo – are also very popular, placing 10th and 11th last month, respectively.
The Chinese manufacturer also plans to introduce two more sub-brands this year, known as Lepas and iCaur, which will provide a new selection of upmarket SUVs and electric 4x4s.
Given this rapid expansion, it comes as little surprise to learn that Chery South Africa will take over Nissan’s Rosslyn factory to produce cars for the local market.
Reuters reported in October 2025 that Chery was in talks with several local automakers to share their local plants to allow them to manufacturer vehicles.
The company plans to build the popular Tiggo 4 Pro crossover for local consumption and for export to other African markets.
Chery South Africa CEO Tony Lui said that the automaker is committed to long-term investment in South Africa.
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