Japanese automaker Isuzu Motors is positioning South Africa as the central hub for commercial truck production across the continent, in a push to expand local manufacturing and sourcing.
Isuzu Motors South Africa is in talks with its headquarters in Japan to relocate more production capacity to the region.
The company aims to increase the local content of its vehicles to 45% by 2030, up from about 22–23% currently.
The CEO of Isuzu Motors South Africa, Billy Tom, told Reuters that the automaker has already piloted local assembly of truck bodies—though some parts are still imported from China and the Middle East.
With pickups already exported to more than 30 African countries, Isuzu is now targeting West Africa as a springboard for expanding truck exports.
However, the move comes at a time when South Africa’s auto industry faces mounting pressure from surging imports, particularly from China.
Don’t Miss This: Zimbabwe’s Mining Labs Struggle to Keep Up as Gold Prices Hit Record High
Weak domestic sales and low localization levels have already forced the closure of 12 auto companies, wiping out over 4,000 jobs in the past two years, Trade Minister Parks Tau revealed.
The industry’s challenges are compounded by a collapse in U.S. exports following Washington’s new 30% tariff on South African cars and parts.
Vehicle exports to the U.S. plunged by more than 80% earlier this year, undermining a sector that generated 28.7 billion rand ($1.64 billion) in 2024.
Despite these headwinds, Isuzu remains committed to deepening its footprint in Africa’s richest economy, betting that local production and regional exports will position South Africa as the continent’s truck manufacturing powerhouse.
Image Credit: The Sudan Times
