NTN Strengthens its Presence in Africa with the Acquisition of Tunisian Company La Tunisie Mécanique (LTM)
The Japanese industrial group NTN has reinforced its presence in Africa by purchasing shares in the Tunisian company La Tunisie Mécanique (LTM), specialized in the manufacturing of automotive shock absorbers. The operation, officially announced on May 19, 2025, marks a strategic turning point for NTN in the expansion of its aftermarket activities.
This acquisition is led by the European subsidiary of the group, NTN EUROPE, based in Annecy (France), which is already active in the production of bearings for the automotive, aerospace, and railway sectors. By partnering with LTM, NTN is no longer limited to distribution but is now involved in the development, manufacturing, and quality control of shock absorbers, a key component of automotive suspension.
This move is part of the strategic plan "DRIVE100 Final", which aims to expand the product range and strengthen the group's position in the aftermarket, particularly in Europe and Africa. The addition of shock absorbers complements the existing range offered by NTN, including transmission shafts, axle bearings, and suspension bushes, where the group already holds a significant share globally.
With this new industrial implantation in Tunisia, NTN intends to enhance its brand visibility and competitiveness in the region, by relying on local production to better respond to African and European demand. This initiative also confirms the attractiveness of the Tunisian industrial fabric for international groups seeking platforms between the two continents.