Reuters: Chinese Car Manufacturers Completely Transform Competition in South Africa's Automotive Market
Reuters (Japanese Edition), May 18: According to automotive industry data released on the 15th, Chinese manufacturers' share in South Africa's passenger vehicle market rose from 11.2% the previous year to 16.8% in 2025. Competitive pricing and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) equipped with advanced technology have completely transformed the competitive landscape.
The annual report released by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) analyzes that South Africa's new car market is entering a period of restructuring, characterized by shifts in purchase prices, changing consumer expectations, and intensified global competition. Furthermore, the most significant change since 2025 has been the rapid rise of Chinese imported car brands in South Africa’s compact car segment.
Modernized technology, competitive pricing, and long-term warranty policies have enabled Chinese brands to gradually become mainstream in the market. NAAMSA stated: “This is seen as a structural reset of the automotive market rather than a short-term surge. For decades, brand reputation influenced the market, but now loyalty to established brands has weakened, and consumers place greater emphasis on price and household budgets when making choices.”
In 2025, a total of 15 Chinese car brands entered South Africa’s new vehicle market, including major manufacturers such as BYD, Chery Automobile, and Great Wall Motors. In 2024, only eight brands were present, and more new brands are expected to join this year.
There remains some degree of brand “loyalty.” Toyota leads with a 24.8% market share, followed by Suzuki and Volkswagen.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865491875510272/
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