Harley-Davidson Plans New Joint-Venture Production Plant in China
Harley-Davidson is planning to produce small motorcycles in China in a joint venture with Geely subsidiary Qianjiang Motorcycle Company, with sales to begin next year in China, with other markets to follow. Harley is aiming for half of its sales to come from International markets by 202, and the company has already moved some production to Thailand as a way to skirt European tariffs on motorcycles shipped from the United States. China has become a major growth market for Harley, with sales increasing some 28% in 2018 over the previous year. “Harley-Davidson has always been about inspiring riders around the world. Our More Roads plan is all about bringing our brand of freedom to more people, in more places, in more ways,” said Matt Levatich, President and Chief Executive Officer, Harley-Davidson. “We’re excited about this opportunity to build more Harley riders in China, one of the world’s largest motorcycle markets, by creating new pathways to our brand.” The first product of the Qianjiang venture is expected to be a premium 338cc displacement Harley-Davidson motorcycle.