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Nissan and Chery South Africa have reached an agreement that will see Chery SA acquire Nissan’s manufacturing assets in Rosslyn, Pretoria. The announcement was made on 23 January 2026 and marks a major shift in South Africa’s automotive manufacturing landscape.
The agreement is subject to certain conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected to be finalised by mid-2026.
What the agreement includes
Under the agreement, Chery SA will purchase the land, buildings, and associated assets of Nissan’s Rosslyn factory. This includes the nearby stamping plant that forms part of Nissan’s manufacturing operations.
Once the acquisition is complete, Chery SA will take ownership of these facilities and continue manufacturing activities at the site.
Jobs and employees remain a key focus
A significant part of the agreement focuses on protecting jobs. The majority of Nissan employees linked to the Rosslyn operations will be offered employment by Chery SA.
These offers will be made on substantially similar terms and conditions to what employees currently have. This move is aimed at ensuring continuity for workers and stability for the broader supplier network linked to the plant.
Nissan’s long-standing presence in South Africa
Nissan Africa President, Jordi Vila, highlighted the importance of finding a sustainable solution for both employees and the business.
He noted that Nissan has a long and proud history in South Africa but that external factors have affected the utilisation and long-term viability of the Rosslyn plant within Nissan’s global operations.
According to Vila, the agreement helps secure employment for most of the workforce while ensuring the Rosslyn site continues to contribute to the South African automotive sector.
Nissan remains committed to the South African market
While Chery SA will take over the manufacturing assets, Nissan will continue operating in South Africa through its sales and distribution business.
The brand has confirmed that it will keep offering vehicles and services to customers as before. Several new vehicle launches are also planned for the 2026 financial year, including the Nissan Tekton and the Nissan Patrol.
What this means for the industry
This agreement represents a significant moment for South Africa’s automotive sector. It ensures continued use of the Rosslyn facility, protects jobs, and allows both Nissan and Chery SA to focus on their long-term strategies in the local market.
At the same time, customers can expect continuity, with Nissan maintaining its presence and introducing new models in the coming year.
