China’s Lifan Group is prioritising its acquisition of Besiney in Uruguay and the establishment of its first overseas R&D centre in Brazil.

It will build a vehicle assembly plant in Uruguay after its purchase of Besiney. Products assembled at the plant will be exported to other markets in the region like Brazil, Argentina and Venezuela.

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A Lifan spokesman said the company is establishing an R&D centre with Effa Motors in Brazil to adapt Lifan vehicles to the special requirements of the region.

The company also will invest US$100m with Effa to set up a joint venture and assembly plant in Brazil to assemble and sell Lifan vehicles with annual production of 10,000 units.

URUGUAY: Lifan plans US$150m auto plant

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