Tata Motor's assembly plant in SA may come after October

Mumbai, July 10 (UNI) High Commissioner of South Africa in India Sehloho Francies Moloi today said the Indian motor giant Tata Motors would be able to set up its proposed assembly plant by October, soon after his government finalises the revised Motor Industry Development Progamme (MIDP).

''The South African government is expected to announce the MIDP by October, which will pave the way to Tata Motors to instal its assembly to manufacture the car parts,'' he said.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a news conference at the Indian Merchants' Chambers (IMC) here today, Mr Sehloho said the Indian-made cars are popular in South Africa as there is at least one Indian car in every three cars presently plying on the roads of South Africa.

Besides, the Tata Motors, Mahindra and Bajaj Auto have also shown business interest in South Africa, the High Commissioner said.

Tata Motors Corporation is considering to start vehicle production in South Africa to cater the needs of the local market there. But the Group's decision to establish large scale vehicle production in the local market, hinged in part on content of MIDP for some time.

Mr Sehloho said he was very optimistic about the revised MIDP which, he felt, would certainly enhance bilateral trade between the two countries and will provide good business opportunities to the Indian car makers.

''Manfacturing of vehicles locally by Indian vehicle makers will reduce the prices,'' he said.

Tata Motors had recently purchased the old Nissan diesel plant in Rosslyn with the intention to commence assembly and manufacture of its vehicles this year, industry sources said.

UNI