Suzuki Motor Corporation, Toyota Tsusho Corporation, and CFAO have formed a joint unit to manufacture and distribute vehicles in Ghana.
This announcement was made by officials from the three Corporations when they paid a courtesy call on President Nana Akufo-Addo, at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, 19th March 2019.
Mr. Koyote Suzuki, the General Manager for the Middle East and Africa of Suzuki Motor Corporation, told President Akufo-Addo that with the company producing some 1.8 million vehicles in India alone, it is the same interest he wishes for the same production to take place in Ghana.
“My mission is to find our next India in the continent of Africa,” he said.
He stated that: “our next phase of growth will come from Africa, but we need to find the right partner in Africa for manufacturing and distribution after the sale of our vehicles.”
Suzuki, he said, has partnered with Toyota in Africa, and Toyota is currently working in some 26 countries.
“We came to know from Toyota that the Ghanaian government is planning to roll out a new automotive policy. We heard this from Toyota executives who paid a visit here last month. We are highly interested in participating in this initiative by the Ghanaian government. We wish to start production here, grow it and expand it,” the Suzuki General Manager added.
Mr. Masafumi Yamashita, from Toyota Tsusho Corporation, in his remarks, noted that Toyota Corporation and CFAO have the largest automotive distribution network in Africa, and have the ambition to contribute to and support further development in African countries.
“Our vision is with Africa and for Africa. This time, we commit to working together with Suzuki Motor Corporation for the future development of the automotive industry here in Africa, as a strategic partner,” he added.
On his part, President Akufo-Addo told the gathering that “these three companies to push the idea, here in Ghana and idea we have to welcome.”
Akufo-Addo also explained, is interested in developing a vibrant and dynamic automobile industry in Ghana, and has made several initiatives towards that end.
“Finally, I believe we are now ready to outdoor our automotive policy which will enable people like you to know what is available to you in terms of government support, and also the obligations that will be upon you if you enter the Ghanaian space,” the President added.
With the economy projected to grow by 7.9% this year, and the country recognized as one of the most stable countries on the continent, where the rule of law works, President Akufo-Addo stressed that “this is architecture designed expressly to try and attract investments into our country.”
President Akufo-Addo welcomed the delegation and expressed how good the collaboration between Suzuki, Toyota Tsusho and CFAO would be to Ghana.
“…This will be very good news for the people of Ghana if they were to hear that Suzuki has teamed up with Toyota Tsusho and CFAO to establish a facility here in Ghana.”
With Suzuki manufacturing 1.6-litre engine vehicles in India, the President stated that “these are exactly the kind of cars that should have a very successful entry into the Ghanaian market.”
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By: Citinewsroom.com | Ghana
