Auto industry’s contribution to SA economy at a glance

At the maiden press conference of the inaugural SA Auto Week, Acting President of the National Association of Automotive Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) and CEO of Toyota SA, Andrew Kirby, presented a summary of the auto industry’s contribution to the economy.

Laurel and michael evans c K Dq7nx Vd Q unsplash

Here are some of the most titillating statistics:

  • The auto industry is the single largest manufacturing sector of the economy with a 17,3% slice of the pie
  • The industry contributes 4,3% to the country’s GDP
  • The capital expenditure of the industry is R8,8 billion by OEMs and R5,7 billion by component manufacturers
  • OEMs employ 30 697 people monthly
  • SA’s vehicle production for 2021 stood at 499 087 units and its total sales for the same period were 464 493.
  • SA ranks at nr 21 in the global vehicle production ranks.
  • SA’s global vehicle production market share is 0,62%
  • The total automotive export earnings for the year in question was R207,5 billion.
  • 5347 new jobs were added by the industry between July 2021 and June 2022
  • There are 12,96 million registered vehicles in SA

More Industry News stories

BAIC to assemble B30 at Gqeberha plant in Eastern Cape

BAIC to assemble B30 at Gqeberha plant in Eastern Cape

BAIC South Africa has confirmed that the all-new BAIC B30 SUV will be assembled locally at the company’s Coega facility in Gqeberha. This step, says BAIC, marks another significant step in the brand’s long-term commitment to the South African market.

  • 29 October 2025
From Kyalami to the World

From Kyalami to the World

Messe Frankfurt expands its roster of shows with a Festival of Motoring in Australia and industry shows in Jakarta and Azerbaijan.

  • 28 October 2025
Protecting your lifeline through servicing and maintenance

Protecting your lifeline through servicing and maintenance

In South Africa, a car is more than a convenience, it’s a lifeline. For many, it’s how they get to work, take children to school, or keep small businesses running, especially when public transport often falls short.

  • 28 October 2025