Mahindra & Mahindra, the India-based global conglomerate active in more than 100 countries, aims to bring its tractor range to South Africa, says Mahindra agri, and Africa and South Asia operations president Ashok Sharma.
“It will probably be the first of a range of products to come to South Africa.”
Mahindra & Mahindra has been active in South Africa’s automotive market for 12 years, and currently sells around 4 000 new bakkies and sports-utility vehicles a year.
Mahindra tractors will probably go on sale in South Africa in 2017, says Sharma.
Mahindra is the world’s best-selling tractor brand.
Mahindra generator sets and construction equipment are also on the list for possible introduction to South Africa, says Sharma.
The group is also busy evaluating the possibility of introducing the full range of Mahindra heavy trucks, built in India, to South Africa.
In addition to this, the group is exploring the possibility of forming partnerships with local groups to export grapes from South Africa, says Sharma.
The country could possibly also benefit from Mahindra’s agricultural advisory services, he adds.
Mahindra does not consider South Africa a viable market for its motorcycles.