By Levy Masiteng
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) has expressed serious concerns about media reports suggesting Nissan is planning to close plants in South Africa, India, and Argentina as part of a global cost-cutting initiative.
This come after Nissan announced plans to reduce its global production facilities from 17 to 10 by 2027, citing a significant revenue loss of ¥670.9 billion (approximately R82 billion) in the 2024 financial year.
NUMSA General Secretary Irvin Jim said on Tuesday that these reports about Nissan’s turnaround strategy could lead to the loss of at least 20,000 jobs.
The potential closures are part of Nissan’s turnaround strategy aimed at streamlining operations and restoring profitability.
Nissan’s CEO, Iván Espinosa, announced that the company’s plan to cut 15% of its global workforce is in response to a challenging market environment and increased competition from the Chinese electric vehicle sector.
Unfortunately, the Rosslyn plant in Pretoria, Gauteng, which currently produces the Nissan Navara, is reportedly one of the facilities facing potential closure.
However, Nissan stated in a statement that reports on specific plant closures are speculative and not based on official information from the company.
“We are committed to maintaining transparency with our stakeholders and will communicate any relevant updates as necessary,” Nissan said.
Jim also said that he has not received formal confirmation from the company regarding the potential closures and is planning to meet with the company’s management to seek clarity on the situation.
“NUMSA is planning to meet the management of Nissan soon and we hope to get clarity on the situation. As soon as we do, we will update the public and our members,” Jim said.
The union has assured its members that it stands ready to defend jobs in the sector.
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