Botswana Vehicles Market in 2024 is experiencing momentum. Full-year sales grew 32.3%, marking the 3rd year of growth and reaching the highest figure of the decade.
Economic Environment
In 2024, Botswana’s economy is projected to contract by 3.1%, following a slowdown to 3.2% growth in 2023, largely due to weakened diamond demand and production declines. Despite a sharp drop in inflation to 2.8% and monetary easing, fiscal pressures have intensified, with the deficit estimated at 9% of GDP and public debt rising to 27.4% of GDP. Unemployment remains high at 27.6%, and inequality is extreme, reflecting structural challenges in shifting away from a public sector- and extractives-driven model. While social services have expanded and government spending on human capital is comparatively high, outcomes remain poor, with Botswana scoring just 0.41 on the Human Capital Index. The recent peaceful political transition to a UDC-led government may offer momentum for inclusive reforms amid persistent vulnerabilities and climate risks.
Automotive Industry Trend and Outlook
After the pandemic downturn and subsequent supply chain disruptions, Botswana’s vehicle market is rebounding robustly, with full-year sales in 2024 growing 32.2%.
The government is actively promoting the automotive sector as a key revenue source by encouraging FDI and OEM expansion, leveraging labor availability, R&D, geographic advantage, and policy support to drive growth.
Brand-wise, Toyota remained market leader, growing 33.7%, followed in 2nd by Nissan (+33.5%) and in 3rd by Isuzu (+33.7%). Ford ranked 4th while growing 33.1% and Mazda closed the Top 5 with a 32.9% increase in year-on-year sales.
Looking at best-selling models, the Toyota Hilux retained leadership (+33.8%), followed by the Nissan NP300 (+33.3%) and the Isuzu KB (+33.8%).
