Chinese rail group looks to set up SA manufacturing plants

Freight logistics utility Transnet signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with locomotives manufacturer CSR Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive (CSR) on Thursday, which could open the way a manufacturing investment by the Chinese group in South Africa. CSR, which produces electric locomotives, is one of the four manufacturers selected by Transnet as part of a R50-billion contract for the delivery of 1 064 electric and diesel locomotives for the group’s general freight business. The other three suppliers are the CNR Corporation, also of China, German-based Bombardier Transportation and General Electric, of the US.