KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu launches new Toyota Corolla and commits government to strenghten automobile sector
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Premier Senzo Mchunu has committed KwaZulu-Natal Provincial government to working with Toyota South Africa to strengthen the automobile sector in the country using the Dug-out-Port as a catalyst. He was speaking during the official line-off ceremony of the new Toyota Corolla in Durban’s Prospecton at what is considered as the world class production plant.
“The statistics as released by the National Association of Automobile Association shows that that the new vehicle sales statistics for the month of January 2014 shows the new vehicle sales had started the year on a weak note. The January 2014 export sales at 13 960 units reflected a decline of 3 433 vehicles or a fall of 19.7% compared to the 17 393 vehicles exported in January last year.”
“Despite this decline, as the provincial government we believe that this province has an important role to play in terms of ensuring the growth of the automotive industry for many years to come. The production of the new Toyota corolla presents a new era of prosperity for the automobile industry in the province and the country as a whole.”
“The provincial government is exploring the possibility of establishing an Automotive Supplier Park few kilometres away from Toyota Plant - at the back of the proposed Dug-Out Port in the old Durban International Airport.”
“In 2012 the provincial government started negotiations with Toyota management in Japan and we asked them to help us convince automobile suppliers to consider setting up their plants in this proposed park. There are also opportunities for automotive leather upholstery manufacturers to be located in the Park and to also supply the automotive suppliers and manufacturers across the country and the international market.”
“We are very much honoured that Toyota has been the brand of choice for the past 34 years in a row, with the group market share around 29.7 % in 2013. Today’s launch is an indication that Toyota is committed to continuing to provide vehicles that meet the needs of customers in South Africa, and to continue being the most preferred brand in the country.”
“Toyota has been producing vehicles here in Durban since 1962. Records show that in 2013 alone Toyota built more than 156 thousands vehicles, of which 80 thousands units were exported to Europe and African countries, supporting the foreign currencies’ acquisition.”
“It is humbling to note that the Durban plant now has an annual production capacity of more than 220 thousands units and contributed in creating more than 8 000 jobs in Durban and Johannesburg.”
“The provincial government would like to pay tribute to Dr Johan Van Zyl, CEO and President of Toyota South Africa for his dedication and commitment. He has always worked with the provincial government over the years. Dr Van Zyl was on our side when we started negotiations to get Toyota Boshuko – Japan to set up their plant here in this province. We are grateful to you Dr Van Zyl, Toyota and to the shareholders of Toyota Boshuko.”
“Thousands of job opportunities have been created by Toyota Boshuko for many families especially in KwaMakhutha, Folweni, Umbumbulu, Malukazi, Umlazi, Adams Mission and surrounding areas. These are the places that were previously ravaged by political violence. The violence resulted in orphans, widows and the displacement of many families. Today we see a great improvement and this should be attributed to the economic activities anchored by Toyota and Toyota Boshuko.”
“Importantly, government appreciates investments by Toyota towards skills development. Thousands of employees who will be working in this Production Line have benefited from the Toyota’s skills development programme. The increasing demand for vehicles requires the industry to ensure an increase production. This won’t be possible without a skilled workforce. In addition, vehicle customers all over the world demand quality vehicles and this on its own requires the industry to have innovative employees.”
“As government we are confident that through investments in skills development by Toyota, this country could see an increase in the number of new vehicle models manufactured in South Africa.”
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