The official launch of Deutz-Fahr’s renewed presence in South Africa at NAMPO 2026 was marked by strong support from both the global leadership of the Deutz-Fahr Group and its new South African distribution partner, Smith Power Equipment.

Speaking at the launch, representatives from Deutz-Fahr welcomed key international guests, including Chairman Lodovico Bussolati, International Director Paolo Ghislandi, and Chief Operating Officer Alessandro Maritano, who attended the event alongside local management.

Addressing dealers, farmers and industry stakeholders, Lodovico emphasised the company’s commitment to South Africa and its confidence in the partnership with Smith Power Equipment. He said: “It is the first time that the Deutz-Fahr leadership team has been in South Africa, and we are very happy to be here.”

Lodovico explained that Deutz-Fahr believes it has found the right partner to strengthen the brand’s position in the country.

“With the operation, the Smith Group and the fantastic team led by David Kelder, we have finally found the right partner to make Deutz-Fahr stronger for the long term in South Africa. Stability and a long-term strategy are the most important factors in building trust with farmers.”

He added that Deutz-Fahr’s history of more than 100 years and its continued investment in product development place the company in a strong position to support South African agriculture.

“South Africa is the most important agricultural country on the African continent. We have invested significantly to prepare a competitive and reliable product offering that meets the needs of farmers in this country.”

Lodovico also committed to maintaining a visible presence in the local market.

“We are fully committed to supporting our distribution network and will return every year to visit this exhibition and support our team.”

The Smith Power Equipment and Deutz-Fahr international team during the ribbon cutting at NAMPO 2026.

A strategic vision for local growth

Paolo highlighted the progress made over the past 18 months to establish the new partnership and reintroduce the brand to the South African market: “This project has been developed over the last 18 months, and today we are here to confirm that Deutz-Fahr is back on track in South Africa.”

He stressed that the company’s ambitions extend well beyond simply re-entering the market: “We are not here to see what happens. We are here to stay. We are here to grow. We are here to satisfy our customers and provide our dealers with the best products possible.”

Paolo pointed to the attendance of Deutz-Fahr’s senior leadership at NAMPO as evidence of the company’s commitment. “Having the CEO of the company present here for three days, speaking to dealers, customers and stakeholders, says more than a thousand words.”

The company also announced plans to strengthen its footprint across Africa, including the opening of a South African office in Cape Town to work more closely with Smith Power Equipment and local customers.

“Our goal is to be even closer to our customers and more present as a brand in this important region.”

Deutz-Fahr welcomed key international guests, including Chairman Lodovico Bussolati, at the Smith Power Equipment exhibition during NAMPO.

Strengthening support through long-term partnership

Representing Smith Power Equipment, David expressed appreciation for the trust placed in the company by Deutz-Fahr and reflected on the agreement signed during a visit to Italy in January last year.

“Smith Power Equipment has been operating for nearly 58 years. We are a company that values long-term partnerships and remains loyal to our brands.”

He thanked the dealer network and farmers for their continued support and emphasised the importance of after-sales service and customer support.

“Together with our dealers, we are going to grow this business. We remain committed to ensuring that tractors are properly maintained and competitively priced.”

David concluded by inviting farmers and industry partners to engage directly with both Smith Power Equipment and Deutz-Fahr representatives throughout the exhibition.

The launch marked a significant milestone for Deutz-Fahr’s return to South Africa, with both companies expressing confidence that the partnership will strengthen the brand’s position in one of Africa’s most important agricultural markets.

For more information, visit Smith Power Equipment’s website on www.smithpower.co.za or send an email to mail@smithpower.co.za or contact them on 011-284-2000.