This photo taken on Feb. 2, 2026 shows a launch ceremony held by Haier in Johannesburg, South Africa. China's home appliance giant Haier on Monday held a launch ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa's economic hub, marking its official entry into the South African market. (Xinhua/Chen Wei)
JOHANNESBURG, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- China's home appliance giant Haier on Monday held a launch ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa's economic hub, marking its official entry into the South African market.
Li Huagang, senior vice president of Haier Group, described South Africa as a strategically important market with significant opportunities. He said the company places high importance on the market and views it as a key hub for future expansion across the wider southern African region.
Highlighting its focus on environmentally friendly innovation, Haier showcased a range of smart home appliances at the event, including washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners.
Li said Haier has tailored its product lineup to local market conditions, introducing solutions designed to meet customer needs, such as solar-powered air conditioners aimed at easing the burden of high electricity costs.
Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, a member of the Gauteng Executive Council for Agriculture and Rural Development, welcomed the company's investment, noting its potential contribution to local economic development.
"Haier's launch in South Africa is far more than just a ceremonial launch but a strategic milestone that speaks to global companies' confidence in the long-term trajectory of our economy at the time of global change and uncertainty," she added.
Haier plans to open an industrial park within the next three years to support Africa's industrialization drive and create jobs, according to Li.
The launch event was attended by 200 guests, including government and industry representatives, business partners, and media representatives. As a global leader in home appliances, Haier now operates in over 200 countries and regions worldwide. ■
Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, a member of the Gauteng Executive Council for Agriculture and Rural Development, is pictured at the Haier's launch ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa, Feb. 2, 2026. China's home appliance giant Haier on Monday held a launch ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa's economic hub, marking its official entry into the South African market. (Xinhua/Chen Wei)
A man asks about products at Haier's launching event in Johannesburg, South Africa, Feb. 2, 2026. China's home appliance giant Haier on Monday held a launch ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa's economic hub, marking its official entry into the South African market. (Xinhua/Chen Wei)
People try products at Haier's launching event in Johannesburg, South Africa, Feb. 2, 2026. China's home appliance giant Haier on Monday held a launch ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa's economic hub, marking its official entry into the South African market. (Xinhua/Chen Wei)
A woman tries products at Haier's launching event in Johannesburg, South Africa, Feb. 2, 2026. China's home appliance giant Haier on Monday held a launch ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa's economic hub, marking its official entry into the South African market. (Xinhua/Chen Wei)