Eastern Cape workers have been dealt another harsh blow as global tyre giant Goodyear announced plans to shut down its manufacturing plant in Kariega (formerly Uitenhage), South Africa. The company has launched a Section 189A consultation process, signalling the likely closure of its only local production facility—operational since 1947.
The decision will directly affect around 900 factory workers, with several sales, admin, and management roles also facing potential cuts. This comes as the Eastern Cape continues to struggle with a staggering 41.9% unemployment rate, according to Statistics South Africa.
Goodyear South Africa confirmed in a statement that while manufacturing operations would cease, the company would still maintain its retail and distribution presence across the country. The move, it said, aligns with the broader strategy to “optimise its footprint and portfolio” in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region.
NUMSA Condemns Closure, Warns of Worsening Job Crisis
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) strongly condemned the announcement, voicing deep concern for the livelihoods of workers and the future of the Kariega community.
“We are deeply worried about the impact on workers and their families in Uitenhage,” said NUMSA. “It is becoming a ghost town. ContiTech, part of Continental and also in the rubber industry, already shut down. Now this.”
NUMSA further emphasized that it would be extremely difficult to replace the lost jobs. The union pledged to fight for its members through negotiation and advocacy, stating that it stands ready to defend workers and secure fair severance deals.
Consultation dates between the union and Goodyear are expected to be announced soon.
A Devastating Trend in Eastern Cape Industry
The looming closure reflects a concerning trend in the Eastern Cape’s industrial landscape. Once considered a hub for automotive and manufacturing sectors, the region has seen an exodus of large employers—fueling economic decline and deepening poverty.
The shutdown of Goodyear’s Kariega plant comes just months after other local manufacturing facilities scaled down or closed, raising alarms about long-term sustainability for workers and their communities.
As Goodyear shifts focus to international market strategies, South African workers face a future clouded by uncertainty.