Gqeberha, South Africa, February 2026 – On 24 October 2025, FAW Trucks Laubstar hosted a select group of valued clients for an exclusive guided tour of the FAW Trucks Assembly Plant in Gqeberha (Coega Industrial Development Zone). The visit provided an invaluable behind-the-scenes look at the advanced manufacturing processes that underpin FAW Trucks Southern Africa’s reputation for world-class reliability, quality, and performance.

Delegates walked the full production line, observing each stage of vehicle assembly, from precision chassis preparation and component integration to rigorous quality control and final testing. Guests witnessed first-hand the cutting-edge technologies, automated systems, and skilled craftsmanship that enable the plant to produce a complete range of commercial vehicles, from light-duty trucks to extra-heavy prime movers, all tailored to meet the demanding conditions of Southern African operations.

The Coega facility plays a pivotal role in FAW’s regional strategy, with ongoing investments aimed at scaling production capacity from its initial 5,000 units per annum to a targeted 8,000 units annually by 2028. A R200-million upgrade programme announced in late 2024 is expanding production lines for 12 key models and enlarging the 30,000 m² facility, supporting increased local assembly and export demand while fostering job creation and skills development in the Eastern Cape.

The tour fostered direct engagement between the FAW Trucks Southern Africa leadership, plant engineers, and Laubstar representatives, reinforcing long-term relationships and providing deeper insight into the brand’s commitment to excellence, local empowerment, and continuous innovation. The guests gained a clearer appreciation of how FAW’s vertically integrated manufacturing ensures supply chain reliability, this is critical in a market where logistics operators face rising cross-border opportunities.

As South Africa’s transport and logistics sector prepares for continued growth in 2026, with forecasts indicating a CAGR of approximately 6.4% for the logistics market (Ken Research, 2026 edition), driven by AFCFTA implementation, infrastructure upgrades, and reduced load-shedding, events like this plant tour equip operators with confidence in the vehicles that will power regional trade expansion across logistics, mining, agriculture, and construction.

FAW Trucks Laubstar is proud to partner closely with FAW Trucks Southern Africa in creating meaningful experiences that build trust and confidence within the transport and logistics community. The visit highlighted not only the impressive scale and sophistication of local production but also the shared vision of delivering dependable, high-value trucks built to keep South Africa moving.

For more information about FAW Trucks Southern Africa’s products, manufacturing excellence, and dealer network, visit www.faw.co.za.

FAW Trucks Southern Africa: Your Trusted Partner FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd, established in 1994, is a leading global player in the commercial vehicle manufacturing segment, committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions. With over 72 years of experience globally and as one of the only OEM brands to offer such a diverse and extensive range—from small to extra-heavy vehicles—FAW Trucks Southern Africa continues to be a trusted partner for businesses regionally and worldwide. Our comprehensive dealer network plays a vital role in ensuring that customers receive exceptional support and service throughout the African region. Local production is supported by a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the Eastern Cape, fostering job creation and delivering high-quality commercial vehicles tailored to regional challenges.

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Sources for Added Facts:

• Coega plant capacity expansion (5,000 to 8,000 units by 2028; R200m investment): FAW Trucks Southern Africa official announcements and media reports (e.g., Brand South Africa, 20 Nov 2024; The Herald, 12 Nov 2024; Algoa FM, 20 Feb 2025).
• Logistics market CAGR ~6.4% in 2026: Ken Research – South Africa Logistics Market Outlook (2026 edition). Link: https://www.kenresearch.com/industry-reports/south-africa-logistics-market-industry.
• AFCFTA and infrastructure drivers: Multiple industry reports (e.g., Market Data Forecast, Mordor Intelligence) and government updates (National Logistics Crisis & Recovery Plan).