Johannesburg – The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has welcomed 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 is the largest trade union in the retail motor industry, representing more than 75 000 workers.
RELATED: Chery SA To Buy Nissan Rosslyn Plant, Save Jobs – The Bulrushes
“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,” Martlé Keyter, MISA’s Chief Executive Officer: Operations, said on Monday, 26 January 2026.
“With Chery taking the lead in this regard, it will not only sustain jobs but create more employment opportunities.”
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.
Commenting on the influx of Chinese made cars, Dr. Roelof Botha, economic advisor to the Optimum Financial Services Group, said it was not just South Africa’s retail and automotive industries that were affected.
“It is part of China’s strategy to dominate the global market with Chinese vehicle brands,” stated Dr. Botha.
“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.”
According to Botha, just short of 100 million vehicles, including trucks and buses, were sold globally in 2025, of which South Africa sold 0,6%.
“This is incredibly significant and positive,” stated Botha.
