SA vehicle exports soar by 59,2%

Ed Richardson
SOUTH AFRICAN vehicle exports grew by 59,2% in 2001, according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa).
According to the organisation, total vehicle exports shot up from 68 031 units in 2000 to 108 293 last year.
The growth for passenger vehicles was even stronger - a 67,7% rise from 58 204 to
97 599 units.
Exports helped increase overall production by 13,9 % with the total rising from 357 364 units in 2000 to 407 036 last year. In comparison world vehicle production dropped by 3,9% - from 58 258 921 to 55 770 001 units.
South AfricaÕs share of world production grew 0,61% in 2000 to 0,73% in 2001, according to the figures.
As a result, Naamsa is projecting a continuing rise in investment in the automotive sector this year and next.
The latest projections see investment rising steadily, from R1,6 billion in 2000 to R2 billion last year, and an estimated R3,3 billion this year.
The growth in SA vehicle exports is set to continue. Naamsa is forecasting a 28% rise in passenger vehicle exports this year, with a further 23% rise next year.
Exports of light commercial vehicles are expected to dip this year, and then to recover next year to just below the 2001 levels, while export growth is expected both this year and next for medium and heavy commercial vehicles.
Total vehicle exports are expected to rise by 24% this year and 22% next year.
These will help protect the industry against a drop in local demand.