BAIC South Africa has confirmed that local assembly of its new B30 SUV will begin at the company’s R11-billion manufacturing plant within the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Gqeberha. The announcement, made on 28 October 2025, marks a significant expansion of BAIC’s footprint in the country’s automotive sector. Production will begin shortly after the B30’s official national launch in November.
The B30 becomes the third model to be built locally at the state-of-the-art facility, joining the B40 Plus and X55 Plus models already rolling off the line. The Coega plant—one of the largest Chinese industrial investments in South Africa—is a joint venture between BAIC and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), established to drive automotive industrialisation and increase skilled employment.
BAIC South Africa’s Brand and PR Manager, Ameena Hassan, said the company’s decision reflects long-term confidence in the local market and its workforce.
“This is about more than manufacturing—it’s about investing in people, skills, and a sustainable automotive future for South Africa,” Hassan said.
“Localising the B30 ensures we continue building capacity in the value chain and advancing the country’s industrial ambitions.”
The project is expected to sustain hundreds of local jobs and stimulate opportunities across manufacturing, logistics, and retail. It will also deepen BAIC’s collaboration with South African automotive component suppliers—supporting the government’s commitment to increasing local content in vehicle production.
BAIC’s strategy follows a global “Build Where We Sell” approach aimed at reducing reliance on imports, improving consumer affordability, and expanding after-sales support infrastructure.
Since entering the South African market in 2016 and commencing production in 2021, BAIC has steadily expanded its dealer network and product range. The introduction of the B30—first showcased publicly at the 2025 Festival of Motoring in Johannesburg—will see the company enter the highly competitive compact SUV segment, targeting families seeking modern design, efficiency, and value.
With assembly due to begin within months, BAIC says the B30 will strengthen its position in South Africa while advancing its long-term commitment to local economic growth and the future of domestic vehicle manufacturing.
