Chinese automakers are gaining ground in the domestic market at an impressive pace as this segment of Namibian vehicle sales recorded 153 units in October. This translates into a 12% market share, which is more than double the 5% share posted in October 2024 and analysts expect this upward trend to continue.
“Chinese brands are becoming more trusted. They are offering more affordability and luxury for less,” said Tamara Pienaar, sales executive at Chery Namibia.
“This value for money is proving very attractive to customers. Also, now that the Chinese brands have been on the local market for longer, customers can see how reliable these vehicles are. Based on the stable sales trajectory customers get to see the actual longevity of the vehicles in the local market,” Pienaar added.
She continued that excellent after sales service coupled with parts availability as well as Super Hybrid options make the Chery brand one of the most attractive on the market.
Market analysts have noted a notable shift in Namibian consumer preferences as buyers increasingly favour vehicles that balance affordability with modern features and design. These preferences point to the more affordable Chinese brands as they battle for market space against more prominent brands from Japan and Europe.
“We have experienced 25% growth year-on-year without the introduction of any new models”, said Karl-Heinz Eisenberg, sales manager at JAC Motors Namibia. “Consumers have started warming up to the idea of Chinese vehicles because they offer reliability, comfort and efficiency,” Eisenberg added.
He further noted that terrain and climate similarities between parts of China and Namibia is an added benefit that ensures JAC vehicles are well suited for Namibian conditions.
“What’s more is that JAC’s head office in China is constantly receiving feedback from Namibia to improve on the existing offering and to ensure the needs of Namibian customers are met,” Eisenberg added.
According to financial services firm, Simonis Storm (SS), the underlying strength in domestic vehicle demand remains concentrated in the retail market. This is as dealerships accounted for 99% of all vehicles sold in October, totalling 1 266 units. Rental companies recorded 0% purchases for the first time this year, reflecting the end of the peak tourism season.
“A notable development came from the public sector, with one vehicle purchase recorded the first government acquisition since the lifting of the long-standing vehicle procurement ban,” Simonis Storm stated.
SS continued that while month-to-month volatility continues, Namibia’s automotive sector is displaying clear signs of sustained recovery. “Strong dealership-driven activity, improving consumer sentiment, and robust commercial vehicle sales place 2025 on track to become the country’s strongest sales year since 2018, underscoring a more stable and confident demand environment as the year draws to a close,” SS added.
SS emphasised that Namibian vehicle sales trends reveal a market in the midst of a structural shift. “Japanese brands, especially Toyota remain firmly ahead, but the gradual softening in monthly sales underscores that brand loyalty is no longer the sole determinant of market growth. At the same time, Chinese manufacturers are transitioning from emerging challengers to credible mainstream competitors, supported by rapid model introductions, attractive pricing, and expanding dealer networks,” SS explained.
Looking forward, SS expects the brands that are most likely to succeed will be those that effectively balance technology, value, and reliable after-sales service.
SS predicts that Namibia’s market is clearly shifting toward cost-effective, feature-rich, and dependable vehicles, which is an environment that will only become more competitive as new models enter the market.
“As Namibia’s vehicle market enters 2026, the key question is whether policymakers can strike the right balance between funding sustainability and consumer affordability. The answer will shape not only ownership costs, but also brand competitiveness, credit appetite, and overall market demand in the year ahead,” SS stated.