Increasing potential for automotive production in Africa and the Middle East

The six vehicle producing countries in the region (Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Morocco, South Africa) have grown and continue to grow in different ways

Carmakers have been relatively slow to build production facilities in the Middle East & Africa (MEA), primarily because economies were under-developed, political instability and vehicle affordability was an issue. Most vehicle markets in the MEA region have grown out of imported vehicles, but many still rely heavily on imported vehicles. However, marked differences in markets are beginning to arise. Governments are beginning to realise the importance of the automotive industry and some are beginning to focus on attracting investments. To this extent, regional variances will continue to grow, as well as protectionist stances by some of the governments.