AAAM sets collaborative agenda for African automotive growth in 2026

The African Association of Automotive Manufacturers believes 2026 will mark a period of steady development driven by cooperation across the continent’s automotive sector.

This outlook was shared by AAAM Chief Executive Officer Victoria Backhaus Jerling, who said collaboration and inclusivity have already delivered tangible results. According to her, 2025 was intentionally framed as a year of partnership building, strengthening relationships across the automotive value chain and laying foundations for future growth.

A major focus for 2026 will be unlocking intra African trade through the adoption of automotive Rules of Origin under the African Continental Free Trade Area. Heads of State are expected to approve a 40 percent African originating content threshold, enabling automotive products to trade formally under the AfCFTA framework for the first time.

Policy implementation across Africa also remains a priority. AAAM will continue supporting the rollout and refinement of automotive policies in several countries including Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Algeria, while maintaining engagement with emerging markets such as Angola.

Component manufacturing and localisation form another key pillar. AAAM aims to secure at least five new component manufacturing investments on the continent through targeted matchmaking, feasibility studies and strategic partnerships.

Sustainability and new energy technologies will receive continued attention. Work on remanufacturing, alternative powertrains, micromobility and enabling legislation is intended to support a wide range of New Energy Vehicle technologies and improve policy alignment across regions.

Other priorities include expanding automotive data and market intelligence, strengthening skills development through executive education programmes, promoting mineral beneficiation and improving access to affordable mobility solutions.

Backhaus Jerling said these initiatives are guided by a single commitment to deepen partnerships, support members and accelerate sustainable industrial growth across Africa.