This chapter examines BYD's $1 billion investment in Manisa, Turkey, and its role in establishing the city as a hub for electric vehicle manufacturing. The discussion highlights the positive economic impact, including increased salaries and improved worker welfare, contributing to Turkey's broader efforts to draw international investments.
We’re in Manisa on Turkey’s west coast.
It’s one of the country’s manufacturing centres for home appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators.
But soon, thanks to a $1bn investment deal, it will also be a local factory hub for China’s BYD - the world’s second biggest maker of electric vehicles.
The Turkish government is desperate for international investment to turn around its economy, and the region would benefit from 5,000 jobs. China is keen to get another foothold into the European market. So is it win-win?
Produced and presented by: Victoria Craig
(Image: BYD vehicles in Istanbul as the Chinese automotive giant announced a huge factory investment. Credit: Getty Images)