MISA, the Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA), welcomes Chery’s investment in South Africa with the acquisition of Nissan’s historic production plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria, which will offer employment to the majority of Nissan’s affected employees.
The Union has repeatedly urged new Chinese vehicle brands entering the country in 2025 to invest in establishing bigger dealership networks that will create jobs for employees negatively impacted by the closure of non-performing dealerships of traditional brands.
“MISA believes that the manufacturing and assembling of Chinese vehicles locally is vital for the survival of the automotive industry, including the local manufacturing of parts and components. With Chery taking the lead in this regard, it will not only sustain jobs but create more employment opportunities,” says Martlé Keyter, MISA’s Chief Executive Officer: Operations.
MISA also congratulates Nissan on putting the fate of its employees first when faced with the decision to either close the plant after 60 years of production or to find a solution that preserved jobs and retained industrial capacity in South Africa.
Dr Roelof Botha, economic advisor to the Optimum Financial Services Group, says it is not just South Africa’s retail and automotive industries that is negatively impacted by the influx of Chinese vehicles.
“It is part of China’s strategy to dominate the global market with Chinese vehicle brands. It stimulates the markets and creates massive competitiveness. The deal between Nissan and Chery is an excellent example of how responsible employers operate within the turmoil,” Roelf says.
According to Roelf just short of 100 million vehicles, including trucks and busses, were sold globally in 2025, of which South Africa sold 0,6% of this. “This is incredibly significant and positive+,” says Botha.
Many forward-thinking individuals propose that autonomous vehicles will improve road safety as problematic driver behaviour, which contributes to 90% plus crashes, will be eliminated. A recent incident may cause some to doubt this, however.
South Africa’s vehicle market has seen a steady influx of emerging brands, alongside continued expansion from established players.
Motorists travelling over the Easter period can expect heavy traffic across South Africa’s road network, with authorities warning that routes to Limpopo will come under particular pressure as thousands of pilgrims make their way to Moria.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Many forward-thinking individuals propose that autonomous vehicles will improve road safety as problematic driver behaviour, which contributes to 90% plus crashes, will be eliminated. A recent incident may cause some to doubt this, however.
South Africa’s vehicle market has seen a steady influx of emerging brands, alongside continued expansion from established players.
Motorists travelling over the Easter period can expect heavy traffic across South Africa’s road network, with authorities warning that routes to Limpopo will come under particular pressure as thousands of pilgrims make their way to Moria.
