byAKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG – BAIC Automobile SA marked its presence at the opening ceremony of the “China–Africa People-to-People Exchange Year” and the Chinese Enterprise Image Exhibition on 13 February in Pretoria, celebrating the festive spirit of Chinese New Year while underscoring its long-term commitment to South Africa’s automotive sector.
The event brought together government officials, diplomats, and major Chinese enterprises operating locally.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were 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.
The gathering served as both a cultural celebration and a strategic platform to strengthen economic, technological, and industrial cooperation between the two nations.
The exhibition coincided with Chinese New Year, the most important traditional festival in China.
The celebration marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is a time for family reunions, reflection, and renewal.
Symbolising good fortune, happiness, and prosperity, the festivities are observed with decorations, lanterns, and symbolic foods that honour centuries-old customs.
For BAIC Automobile SA, the New Year festivities reflected a broader commitment to renewal and partnership in the South African market.
The exhibition featured leading Chinese enterprises across sectors such as telecommunications, finance, aviation, manufacturing, and automotive technology.
BAIC Automobile SA stood out among eight Chinese automotive brands, highlighting the brand’s growing footprint and engineering prowess.
Guests at BAIC’s stand were introduced to the company’s expanding SUV range, with particular focus on the locally assembled B30, produced at BAIC’s state-of-the-art Coega facility.
The B30 embodies the company’s “Build Where We Sell” philosophy and demonstrates BAIC’s commitment to local assembly, skills development, and technology transfer.
During the exhibition, Ambassador Wu Peng and Deputy Minister Gina engaged with BAIC representatives to learn more about the company’s technological innovation, localisation efforts, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Deputy Minister Gina emphasised the importance of continued collaboration in science, technology, and innovation—critical sectors shaping the future of mobility and manufacturing in South Africa.
BAIC reaffirmed its dedication to supporting the country’s industrialisation agenda through local assembly, workforce training, and investment in sustainable growth.
Its partnership with stakeholders, including the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), reflects a long-term vision of mutually beneficial growth.
The venue was adorned with traditional Chinese décor, creating a vibrant atmosphere that fused centuries-old heritage with modern industrial achievement.
For BAIC Automobile SA, the event symbolised more than a festive celebration—it was a reaffirmation of the brand’s role as a bridge between global innovation and local delivery.
With a growing SUV portfolio—including the B40 Plus, X55 Plus, and the B30—BAIC Automobile SA continues to strengthen its position in South Africa, offering advanced mobility solutions while supporting industrial growth, job creation, and skills development.
– CAJ News
