Daimler Truck Signs Deal for Assembly Plant in Senegal

- Daimler Truck has signed a Letter of Intent with Senegal’s government and GTS.
- The new facility will target production start in 2026 in the Dakar area.
- Daimler will supply CKD kits and act as a technology partner.
- GTS will manage the assembly of specialized trucks for defense and commercial use.
- Senegal is set to provide industrial land, tax incentives, and training support.
Key Aspects of the New Assembly Facility in Senegal
Daimler Truck Signs Deal for Assembly Plant in Senegal Daimler Truck has officially signed a Letter of Intent with the Senegalese government and Global Truck Systems (GTS). This partnership aims to kick-start a truck assembly facility located close to Dakar, with a target production commencement set for 2026. Under this agreement, Daimler will exclusively supply its Mercedes-Benz CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits and serve as the technology partner, while GTS will handle daily operations at the plant, a significant role that they are ready to take on.
Strengthening Local Economy and Infrastructure
Joint Venture Aims to Meet Local Demand The upcoming facility’s primary objective is to assemble specialized trucks that will cater specifically to Senegalese defense, police, and fire services, in addition to manufacturing commercial vehicles intended for waste management, construction, and logistics sectors. Senegal, in return, is committed to providing industrial land and some incentives, like tax breaks, alongside workforce training support to ensure the plant runs smoothly. This initiative is expected to strengthen local capabilities and contribute significantly to industrial growth in the region, underlining the commitment to enhance Senegal’s mobility infrastructure and advance domestic production goals.
Investment and Commitment to Local Workforce
Corporate Leaders Emphasize Development Partnerships At a recent announcement, Franziska Cusumano, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks, expressed enthusiasm about how the project aligns with existing German-Senegalese development initiatives, particularly those focused on climate incepted since 2023. In a similar vein, Michael Dietz, who leads Daimler’s operations in the MEA region, underscored the firm’s dedication to job creation and the essential transfer of industrial expertise to the local workforce. Meanwhile, GTS will play a crucial role in not only setting up the plant but also in training personnel and managing the sales of the manufactured vehicles.
In summary, Daimler Truck’s collaboration with the Senegalese government and GTS represents a significant step toward enhancing the region’s manufacturing capabilities. This assembly plant is set to benefit various sectors, including defense and commercial services, while also promising job creation and skills transfer in the local workforce. It underscores a crucial partnership aimed at fostering sustainable development and mobility solutions in Senegal.