Nissan will end vehicle production at its Rosslyn plant in South Africa, closing a manufacturing chapter that spans nearly 60 years. The move comes as regulators back the sale of the facility to China’s Chery, pending conditions tied to employment and local supply commitments.

The Competition Commission announced on June 19 that it has recommended approval of the transaction. If completed, Chery South Africa will take over the Gauteng-based plant and begin assembling selected SUV models locally.

Nissan said the decision follows years of low plant utilisation and shifting global priorities that have affected the long-term viability of its South African manufacturing operations.

The Rosslyn facility began operations in 1973, after Nissan first started assembling vehicles in South Africa in 1966. Over time, it produced several well-known models, including the NP200, NP300 Hardbody and the Navara bakkie.

Competition Commission backs Chery deal

The Competition Commission said the transaction is not expected to lessen competition in South Africa’s automotive market, provided the parties meet agreed conditions on employment protection and local sourcing.

The regulator added that the safeguards are intended to limit job losses and support domestic supply chains as ownership of the plant changes hands.

Chery’s planned acquisition would mark its first local manufacturing base in South Africa. The Chinese automaker has expanded quickly in the country through imported SUVs and now aims to strengthen its position with local production.

Nissan shifts to importer model

Nissan’s withdrawal from manufacturing reflects broader restructuring across its global operations, as the company scales back production at facilities with weaker output.

In South Africa, the brand once held a stronger position, led by models such as the NP200 and Navara, but has lost ground amid rising competition from lower-cost rivals.

Despite ending production, Nissan will remain in the South African market as an importer and distributor. It will continue selling models such as the Magnite, X-Trail and Navara sourced from overseas factories, while preparing future introductions including the Patrol SUV and the Tekton crossover built through its global alliance network.