Pretoria, South Africa – February 2026 – BAIC Automobile SA marked a milestone in its commitment to South Africa by participating in the opening ceremony of the “China–Africa People-to-People Exchange Year” and the Chinese Enterprise Image Exhibition in Pretoria on 13 February. The event celebrated the spirit of Chinese New Year while highlighting the growing industrial, technological, and economic collaboration between the two nations.
The ceremony brought together government leaders, diplomats, and leading Chinese enterprises, with distinguished guests including His Excellency Wu Peng, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to South Africa, and Ms Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation of South Africa. The gathering provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and reinforced the shared commitment to sustainable development and innovation.
Showcasing Innovation and Industrial Strength
The exhibition featured prominent Chinese enterprises across key sectors such as telecommunications, finance, aviation, manufacturing, and automotive innovation. BAIC Automobile SA was among eight leading automotive brands on display, demonstrating China’s engineering prowess and the company’s growing presence in South Africa.
At BAIC’s exhibition stand, visitors explored the brand’s expanding SUV portfolio and its localisation initiatives. The spotlight was on the locally assembled BAIC B30, produced at the company’s advanced Coega facility in Gqeberha. The B30 represents BAIC’s “Build Where We Sell” philosophy and underscores the company’s long-term industrial investment in South Africa.
High-Level Engagement and Bilateral Collaboration
During the exhibition tour, Ambassador Wu Peng and Deputy Minister Gina engaged with BAIC representatives, gaining insight into the company’s technological innovations, local production capabilities, and community-focused initiatives.
Deputy Minister Gina praised the role of Chinese enterprises in South Africa’s socio-economic development, emphasising the importance of continued collaboration in science, technology, and innovation—sectors driving the future of mobility and manufacturing. BAIC Automobile SA reaffirmed its dedication to supporting South Africa’s industrialisation through local assembly, skills development, and technology transfer in partnership with stakeholders including the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
Blending Tradition with Modernity
The exhibition also celebrated Chinese New Year, with vibrant traditional décor creating a lively cultural backdrop. For BAIC Automobile SA, the occasion symbolised more than a festive celebration—it reflected a renewed commitment to partnership, localisation, and sustainable growth in South Africa.
The event marked a strong start to the “China–Africa People-to-People Exchange Year,” highlighting the role of enterprises like BAIC Automobile SA as bridges between global innovation and local delivery.
About BAIC Automobile SA
BAIC Automobile SA is part of Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd (BAIC Group), a Fortune Global 500 company and one of China’s leading vehicle manufacturers. Operating locally in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), BAIC runs a world-class assembly facility in the Coega Industrial Development Zone near Gqeberha.
With a growing SUV range including the B40 Plus, X55 Plus, and the locally assembled B30, BAIC Automobile SA is committed to delivering advanced, value-driven mobility solutions while supporting South Africa’s industrial growth, job creation, and skills development.
