CHINA’S SAIC Motor said its MG brand would be bringing in local investors in India to create a more favourable operating environment in the world’s third-largest auto market.

JSW Ventures, part of the JSW conglomerate, plans to buy a 35 per cent stake in MG Motor India for 35.8 billion rupees (S$580 million).

IndoEdge India Fund will buy an 8 per cent stake, a dealer trust will take a 3 per cent stake and an employee stock ownership plan will own 5 per cent.

New Delhi has sought to limit investments from Chinese companies amid geopolitical and trade tensions.

“As MG Motor India aims to continue to increase MG brand’s market share in India and effectively prevent operating risks, the unit plans to introduce local Indian investors to create more favourable conditions for sustainable and healthy development,” SAIC said on Sunday (Apr 7).

SAIC has been counting on global markets for growth, especially with its MG brand – which is a continuation of the iconic British marque – particularly since it and its foreign partners have lost much ground in its home market to BYD and Tesla.

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Nearly a quarter of SAIC cars sold in 2023 were exported. REUTERS