Sunday, April 5, 2026

Transport Minister calls on GAC Juntu to establish manufacturing plant in Ethiopia

By our staff reporter

GAC Motor officially entered the Ethiopian market in 2025, launching New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) such as the AION Y Plus and ES9 PHEV in Addis Ababa. Focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) to align with Ethiopia’s green mobility strategy, the company plans to assemble vehicles locally through a partnership with the Huajian Group. GAC Motor has established showrooms in Addis Ababa, offering both sales and after-sales services.

In a significant move aimed at bolstering the nation’s industrial sector, Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime recently called upon GAC Juntu to establish vehicle assembly and full-scale manufacturing plants within Ethiopia. The Minister issued this call during the inauguration of a new GAC Motor showroom in Addis Ababa on March 27, 2026. The event was attended by ambassadors, business leaders, and automotive enthusiasts.

During his speech, Alemu emphasized that Ethiopia is rapidly transforming into an African automotive industry hub, moving beyond being merely a market for finished products. He highlighted the country’s population of over 120 million and its strategic location in the Horn of Africa as key investment attractions, stating, “Ethiopia is a nation on the move.”

He further noted that international partners like GAC Motor can leverage Ethiopia’s abundant renewable energy and youthful workforce by setting up local assembly lines. While encouraging this industrial growth, the Minister also stressed the vital importance of gaining consumer trust. A representative from GAC JUNTU reinforced this vision of partnership, stating that their entry signifies a long-term commitment to Ethiopia rather than a simple market expansion.

The company aims to introduce a complete electric mobility ecosystem designed for reliability and innovation, supporting Ethiopia’s transition to sustainable transportation while contributing to national economic growth.

The newly inaugurated state-of-the-art facility spans 2,300 square meters and has introduced four new electric vehicle models to the market: the AION UT, AION V, HYPTEC HT, and HYPTEC HL. This center operates as a “4S” standard facility, providing integrated services for vehicle sales, maintenance, and genuine spare parts. GAC Motor’s expanded presence in the Ethiopian market, including this new facility, is expected to significantly support the country’s ongoing efforts to reduce fuel dependency and expand green transportation infrastructure.

Focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) to align with Ethiopia’s green mobility strategy, the company plans local assembly through a partnership with the Huajian Group. Showrooms are already open in Addis Ababa, offering both sales and after-sales services.

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