Chinese vs traditional car brands in Namibia What changed in five years? Part 1

The Namibian vehicle market has changed significantly between 2021 and 2025.

Five years ago, established Japanese, German, American and Korean brands dominated new-vehicle sales. Chinese brands were present, but they occupied a much smaller part of the market.

By 2025, Chinese manufacturers had become a serious competitor. Their combined share reached 9.1% of Namibia’s new-vehicle market, compared with 7.5% in 2024. Chinese brands sold 1 320 vehicles in 2025, while Toyota alone sold 8 226.

The important point is that Chinese brands have not replaced traditional brands in Namibia. They have taken a growing share of a market that is still dominated by established manufacturers.

Traditional brands controlled the market. In 2021, Namibia sold about 9 428 new vehicles.

Toyota was the clear market leader with 34.9%, followed by Volkswagen at 13.7%.