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The logo of Isuzu is seen during the International Motor Show.
Isuzu Motors South Africa says expanding into the African market is what kept the company stable, despite economic challenges faced by the automotive sector. This was revealed during the State of the Company address in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.
The automotive sector is currently facing mounting pressure from global trade tensions, rising vehicle imports, and uncertainty around vehicle export tariffs to the US.
CEO Billy Tom says the country is in dire need of investment.
“We cannot use tariffs to block everything because consumers need cars. What we need in South Africa is investment. We need to create an environment where people who have invested feel safe, create an incentive for people to invest in business. Tariffs have been weaponized for some time now but what we actually need is leadership,” says Tom.
Imported vehicles continue to gain market share locally, raising concerns about job protection and industrial capacity.
However, Isuzu’s senior vice president for commercial operations, Komane Pitso, says the company has spent over R500 million on local suppliers.
“One of the requirements to be part of the Africa Free Trade Agreement is sourcing 40% of local supply content and localisation plays key role in industrialisation and job creation. Isuzu contributes to the automotive industry transformation fund and we have spent about R509 million investment on local supplier, VSL,” he adds.
In November 2025, Isuzu invested in a R750-million metal stamping facility launched in Gqeberha:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vNDf69R-Ms
