As FAW Trucks continues to top South Africa’s commercial vehicle sales charts for the fourth consecutive month, the Chinese manufacturer has ramped up its retail footprint through a strategic expansion partnership with Laubstar Holdings, launching four new dealership sites across the country.
The new sites – located in Lichtenburg, Potchefstroom, Upington, and Kathu – are part of a wider push to improve service access and support for operators in key economic sectors, including agriculture, mining, and logistics.
While FAW Trucks Southern Africa remains tight-lipped on its long-term sales ambitions, a spokesperson noted during the launch:
“We remain focused on delivering value-driven, reliable trucks supported by local expertise. This expansion forms part of our broader strategy to stay responsive to our customers’ needs in high-demand regions.”
Strategic Positioning Amid Market Momentum
The expansion comes as naamsa reports that FAW Trucks led national commercial vehicle sales from January to April 2025, with units rising from 334 in January to a peak of 456 in April – a consistent performance in a competitive segment historically dominated by brands like Toyota, Isuzu, and Daimler.
“The automotive sector finds itself once again at the coalface of global economic shifts,” said Mikel Mabasa, CEO of naamsa. “Brands that can adapt quickly, offer competitive value, and support operators locally are proving resilient.”
Market data also indicates that medium commercial vehicle sales grew by 10.2% year-on-year in April, while heavy truck and bus sales declined by 11.1%, reflecting mixed conditions across the sector.
A Growing Footprint in High-Demand Regions
Each new Laubstar dealership offers full-service capabilities, including sales, servicing, and spare parts, ensuring uptime for operators in remote and industrial zones. The expansion also promises local economic impact, with new jobs and skills development opportunities in each town.
Laubstar, known for its customer-first approach, says its success lies in matching the right truck to the right operation.
“We serve everyone from mega-farmers to mining operations,” a company rep explained. “And we back them with the parts, service, and knowledge they need to stay moving.”
Outlook: Serving South Africa’s Evolving Transport Needs
FAW Trucks Southern Africa says it will continue to focus on expanding its dealer network, improving aftersales support, and launching new models tailored for local conditions. The company is also investing R200 million into expanding its Coega manufacturing plant, aiming to increase annual production from 5,000 to 8,000 units.
As the South African truck market heads for an expected 1.77% annual growth through 2029 – with the wider logistics sector projected to hit USD 137.4 billion by 2030 – brands like FAW that can combine affordability, reliability, and strong local partnerships appear well positioned to lead.
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