Africazine:
Hisense SA celebrates 30 years of impactful operations in South Africa, marking significant contributions to local manufacturing and community development.
Since its establishment in October 1996, Hisense has expanded from consumer electronics to local manufacturing, employing over 1,000 South Africans at its Atlantis facility. The company invested R350 million in 2013 to build a manufacturing plant capable of producing one million televisions and 500,000 refrigerators annually.
Hisense’s Manufacturing Milestones in South Africa
The Atlantis Plant has produced approximately 4.5 million televisions and 2.9 million refrigerators since its inception. In 2022, refrigerators were exported to Europe for the first time, enhancing South Africa’s role in Hisense’s global operations.
Quality assurance is integral to the plant’s operations, with daily performance checks and monthly testing of energy consumption and freezing capacity. This commitment to quality ensures that products meet international standards.
Employment and Skills Development Initiatives
Hisense employs over 1,000 individuals, primarily from Atlantis and nearby communities. The company emphasizes skills transfer, pairing local staff with Chinese engineers to foster independence in operations.
In September 2025, Hisense launched a year-long learnership program for 100 unemployed South Africans, focusing on hands-on production experience and career development. The first group graduated recently, with a new intake of 120 learners starting the program.
Future Growth and Community Impact
- Opening of the first premium brand store at Canal Walk, Cape Town, in 2025.
- Toshiba TV’s entry into the South African market in July 2026.
- Continued community initiatives focused on youth development and practical skills.
Hisense’s commitment to local manufacturing and community development showcases the potential for sustainable growth in South Africa.
