Nissan and Chery SA have reached agreement on the acquisition of Nissan’s manufacturing assets in Rosslyn, South Africa. 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 agreement will see the majority of associated Nissan employees offered employment by Chery SA on substantially similar terms and conditions.

“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,” said Jordi Vila, Nissan Africa President.

“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 announced last year that it would close seven plants out of a global network of 17 manufacturing sites as the struggling carmaker reported a net loss of $4.5 billion for the financial year that ended in March 2025, amid surging restructuring costs.

Production in South Africa fell to around 17 000 units in 2024, as the Rosslyn, Gauteng-based facility was forced to end assembly of the popular NP200 half-ton bakkie and continue only with the Navara pickup. Production volumes at Nissan South Africa (SA) had steadily hovered short of 25 000 units a year for the last few years, down from well over 54 000 units in 2012.

The Chinese brand Chery has established itself as a major, rapidly growing Chinese automaker in South Africa, ranking within the top eight best-selling brands by 2025 with over 25 000 units sold. Known for affordable SUVs like the Tiggo 4 Pro, Tiggo 7 Pro, and Tiggo 8 Pro. Also being sold locally
Omoda and Jaecoo are two sister brands owned by Chery that are only marketed outside of China to support its export strategy.

Following the acquisition of the plant by Chery SA, Nissan will continue to offer vehicles and services to customers in South Africa, as before, with several new vehicle launches planned for fiscal year 2026 including the Nissan Tekton and Nissan Patrol.