Chinese Firm Tianlong Inaugurates Major LPG Cylinder Plant in South Africa to Boost Local Supply

New Manufacturing Hub for LPG Cylinders

Chinese-based liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder manufacturer Tianlong has reportedly inaugurated a new $13-million (R200-million) production facility in Boksburg, Gauteng. According to reports, this marks the company’s first manufacturing presence in South Africa and the wider Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, shifting from previous import-based operations to local production.

New Manufacturing Hub for LPG Cylinders
Production Capacity and Strategic Goals
Job Creation and Economic Impact
Compliance and Industry Collaboration
Boosting LPG Adoption and Energy Access
Regional Confidence and Export Potential

Production Capacity and Strategic Goals

The facility is expected to ramp up to an annual output of 1.2 million LPG cylinders across various sizes, depending on market demand. Sources indicate that Tianlong’s CEO, William Wang, emphasized the strategic alignment of locating manufacturing closer to clients to reduce costs without sacrificing quality. The group has reportedly produced over five million cylinders globally this year alone, underscoring its expanded footprint in Africa, with existing operations in Nigeria, Kenya, Cameroon, and Guinea.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

Analysts suggest that the plant has already generated 89 jobs, with projections of over 200 positions once it reaches full operational capacity. The Gauteng Growth and Development Agency acknowledged the investment as strengthening bilateral ties between South Africa and China, highlighting support in areas such as investment and skills development. Additionally, small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) were involved in the construction phase, and Tianlong is said to be assisting SMMEs in launching their own gas brands through cylinder sourcing and regulatory support.

Compliance and Industry Collaboration

Establishing the facility involved navigating compliance challenges, with collaboration between Tianlong, the Department of Employment and Labour, and the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association of South Africa (LPGSA) to meet local manufacturing and labor standards. The report states that Tianlong remains committed to maintaining these partnerships to ensure ongoing adherence to regulations and industry improvements.

Boosting LPG Adoption and Energy Access

Industry leaders, including LPGSA Managing Director Gadibolae Dihlabi, highlighted the facility’s potential to elevate LPG’s role in South Africa’s energy mix. Despite longstanding use, LPG has faced hurdles such as supply constraints and safety misconceptions. The local manufacturing setup is expected to lower cylinder costs, promote cleaner cooking alternatives, and reduce reliance on illegally imported cylinders. Energy sector representatives, like Robyn Vilakazi of the Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority, noted that affordable cylinders could help mitigate energy poverty, particularly impacting women and girls.

Regional Confidence and Export Potential

Local officials, including Ekurhuleni’s Nomadlozi Nkosi, expressed confidence that the facility reinforces the region’s status as a manufacturing hub and enhances export competitiveness within SADC. The dual-tech production line and automation systems are anticipated to drive technological advancements and economic growth in the energy manufacturing sector, positioning LPG as a catalyst for sustained regional development.