Daimler Truck Plans Senegal Assembly Plant in Tripartite Deal

• Daimler Truck signs Letter of Intent for an assembly plant in Senegal.
• Senegal’s government supports the project with tax incentives and land.
• The joint venture targets production of specialized trucks for local services.
• Daimler will supply CKD kits and technical expertise for operations.
• GTS will oversee the assembly plant management and personnel training.

Daimler Truck Partners with Senegal for Assembly Plant

Daimler Truck is taking significant steps towards expanding its global footprint with a new truck assembly plant in Senegal. The company has recently signed a Letter of Intent alongside Senegal’s government and Global Truck Systems (GTS) to establish this facility just outside Dakar. The expected timeline for production to commence is set for 2026, marking a crucial milestone for the collaboration among the involved parties.

Joint Venture Aimed at Local Market Needs

Under this agreement, Daimler will become the exclusive supplier of Mercedes-Benz CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits, acting also as the technology partner for the new venture. GTS will take the lead on the operations at the assembly plant. The project aims to cater to various sectors, assembling specialized trucks for local defense, police, and fire services, in addition to commercial vehicles essential for waste management, logistics, and construction sectors. Senegal’s government is showing its support by providing industrial land, tax incentives, and crucial workforce training to bolster the initiative.

Focus on Job Creation and Industrial Capability

Franziska Cusumano, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks, discussed the project’s alignment with existing German-Senegalese development partnerships, particularly focusing on environmentally sustainable initiatives that have been ongoing since 2023. Michael Dietz, Daimler’s CEO for the Middle East and Africa region, reiterated the company’s dedication to contributing to job creation and enabling the transfer of industrial capabilities to Senegal. GTS will be responsible for setting up the plant, training personnel for its operation, and overseeing sales operations. Meanwhile, Daimler will ensure reliable supply chains, stringent quality control, and long-term service support as part of this strategic collaboration. This initiative not only aims to meet Senegal’s domestic production goals but also significantly contributes to enhancing the region’s mobility infrastructure.

In conclusion, Daimler Truck’s new assembly plant in Senegal represents a meaningful venture aimed at boosting local production and enhancing regional mobility. The joint effort with GTS and the Senegalese government highlights a commitment to creating jobs and fostering industrial development in the area. With a production start slated for 2026, this partnership is designed to meet both defense and commercial vehicle needs, ensuring quality and operational efficiency.