South African automotive manufacturers are increasing pressure on the government to address the issue of vehicle imports, according to The Citizen Business. While reaffirming their commitment to operating in the country, the automakers are demanding what they describe as a level playing field in the domestic market. The industry argues that current import conditions place local producers at a disadvantage and is calling for government intervention to ensure fair competition.

According to Tech-ish, Chinese panel makers are projected to ship 65.2% of the world's automotive displays in the second half of 2026, up from 28.1%. The outlet says that trajectory makes Chinese screens likely in many next-generation cars, pointing to a rapid shift in the global automotive display market toward Chinese suppliers.

China's car exports have risen sharply even as domestic vehicle sales fell by 24 percent, according to TimesLIVE. Chinese carmakers are expanding their presence in Europe and emerging markets, maintaining overseas growth despite the introduction of stricter trade rules in those regions. The figures highlight a widening gap between weakening demand at home and strengthening sales abroad for China's automotive industry, which continues to push into international markets.

According to SABC Business, Chery, a Chinese motor manufacturer, has taken over the Rosslyn plant previously operated by Nissan. This move has been described by Mashatile as a vote of confidence in South Africa's automotive industry.

According to Vanguard Business, stakeholders in Nigeria's automobile and maritime sectors have identified delays and high clearing costs as significant factors driving car importers to use neighboring countries' ports and engage in smuggling. The Nigeria Customs Service reported the seizure of 870 smuggled vehicles valued at N3.88 billion over a 15-month period.

Japan has lodged a protest after China imposed new controls limiting imports of dichlorosilane, a chemical used in computer chip manufacturing, from Japan. According to the Associated Press, Tokyo said Tuesday it is studying the potential impact of the measures on Japanese companies. China said the curb was imposed because Japanese exports of the material, also known as DCS, allegedly violated anti-dumping regulations and harmed Chinese interests. The move adds to trade tensions between the two countries.