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.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the collision repair industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the African automotive sector forward.
More From News
Tiny Car Accessories, Serious Crash Risks
Decorative steering wheel accessories may appear harmless, but safety warnings and medical reports show they can become dangerous projectiles during airbag deployment, causing severe injuries in crashes.
South Africa’s AutoGas Sector Moves Into Focus With First Dedicated Industry Workshop
South Africa's first dedicated AutoGas Workshop will bring together industry stakeholders, technical professionals and fleet operators to explore the opportunities and challenges of LPG as a cleaner transport fuel.
Rising Vehicle Technology is Changing the Repair Landscape in South Africa
South Africa’s vehicle repair sector is facing increasing complexity as advanced driver assistance systems and digital technologies become standard across the car parc, reshaping workshop requirements and repair processes.
EU Backs Tougher Circular Economy Rules for Cars
The European Parliament has approved new circular economy regulations that will require vehicle manufacturers to improve recyclability, increase recycled material use and strengthen end-of-life vehicle responsibility.
Young Hyundai Technician Plays Key Role in Building Commercial Vehicles
Hyundai Automotive South Africa assembly technician Kwanele Sibisi has contributed to the production of more than 2,000 commercial vehicles, demonstrating the skill and dedication required in modern vehicle manufacturing.
PPG Extends WorldSkills Europe Partnership to Back Car Painting Talent
PPG has renewed its partnership with WorldSkills Europe for a further two years, reinforcing its commitment to vocational training and supporting the next generation of automotive refinishing professionals.