Major investment brings advanced manufacturing technology to the uMnambithi facility, expands production capacity and strengthens Dunlop’s African export capabilities
Dunlop Tyres South Africa has completed a R1.7 billion investment programme at its uMnambithi manufacturing facility in KwaZulu-Natal, introducing advanced production technologies and strengthening the plant’s role in the African automotive and tyre manufacturing industry.
The three-year investment, backed by Dunlop’s parent company Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) of Japan, has upgraded key areas of the facility with a new compound mixer, tread and sidewall production lines, as well as advanced curing technology. These improvements are designed to enhance manufacturing quality, consistency and production capabilities.
The upgraded facility will increase Dunlop’s ability to manufacture passenger car, SUV and light truck tyres for the South African market and other African destinations. The company currently supplies tyres to markets including Nigeria, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Zambia and Zimbabwe, strengthening the plant’s role as a regional manufacturing and export hub.
The investment also introduces manufacturing capabilities for next-generation low rolling resistance tyres, supporting growing demand for improved vehicle efficiency and lower emissions. These technologies are expected to help Dunlop respond to changing vehicle requirements as the automotive sector moves towards more sustainable mobility solutions.
The uMnambithi plant also supplies tyres to major vehicle manufacturers operating in South Africa, including Toyota, Isuzu, Ford, Volkswagen and Nissan. Enhanced production capabilities are expected to strengthen Dunlop’s position as an original equipment supplier while supporting the wider South African automotive manufacturing ecosystem.
The investment reflects Sumitomo Rubber Industries’ long-term commitment to South Africa and its automotive manufacturing sector. The company views the country as an important part of its global strategy and sees the upgraded facility as an important platform for supporting regional automotive growth.
For Dunlop, the modernisation represents more than an expansion of production capacity. The company says the upgraded plant positions its uMnambithi operation at the forefront of tyre manufacturing innovation in Africa and prepares it to produce tyres required by vehicle manufacturers and consumers in the next generation of mobility.
The development further highlights the growing importance of advanced manufacturing technology, localisation and regional production in Africa’s automotive supply chain, while creating opportunities for the tyre industry to support more efficient and sustainable mobility.