Nissan and Chery SA have reached agreement on the acquisition of Nissan’s manufacturing assets in Rosslyn, South Africa. In simplified English this means that Chery SA will be purchasing the Rosslyn factory to produce their products on a local scale, it also means that Nissan will now offer new products and services in South Africa through sales and distribution operations instead of through the plant.
Chery has experienced rapid growth in South Africa since returning in late 2021, selling over 16,000 vehicles in 2023. The company achieved record-breaking sales in 2024 and 2025, with monthly sales frequently exceeding 2,500 units by late 2025. As of the end of 2025, it established itself as a top-six passenger vehicle brand.
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 as today.
Jordi Vila, Nissan Africa President, said: “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.
“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.”
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.