08:27 20-03-2026
Great Wall Motor considers local production in South Africa
Great Wall Motor is exploring localization in South Africa, including factory sharing or acquisition, to boost its market share and support global expansion efforts.
Chinese automaker Great Wall Motor (GWM) is exploring the possibility of localizing production in South Africa. The company is considering options ranging from sharing an existing factory to acquiring a ready-made production facility.
According to GWM's regional head, negotiations are already underway with Mercedes-Benz and Nissan. One potential scenario involves contract assembly, which would allow quicker market entry without building a new plant—a process that demands significant investment and time.
This localization interest ties into the global strategy of Chinese automakers. Amid potential restrictions on vehicle imports from China, companies are actively developing overseas production to reduce risks and strengthen their positions in key markets.
GWM already holds about 5% of the South African market and is focusing on growth in the hybrid segment. Recently, the company introduced an updated Haval H6 with a plug-in hybrid system, aiming to attract family-oriented buyers.
Simultaneously, the launch of a new global model is under consideration, which could receive local assembly and even be exported to Europe. This highlights Africa's growing role in the strategy of Chinese brands as they pursue global expansion and production diversification.