Chinese Automakers Hold Off on U.S. Market, Focus on Latin America and Beyond

Chery International President Zhang Guibing stated that Chery hopes to enter the U.S. automotive market at an appropriate future time, though no specific timeline has been set. The decision will depend on the company’s own readiness and evolving industrial policies between China and the United States. The U.S. government has previously indicated that Chinese automakers could be allowed into the market if they manufacture vehicles locally in the U.S., but this stance faces opposition from U.S. automotive industry groups and some members of Congress. Currently, the U.S. imposes a 100% tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles and restricts technologies related to intelligent connected vehicles, while Congress continues to intensify scrutiny of Chinese automobiles. As a result, Chery has not yet listed the U.S. as an export destination, with its current business focus concentrated on Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, several Chinese automakers are accelerating their expansion into Mexico and Latin America, using these regions as springboards to access the North American market. Some companies have already established R&D and design centers in the U.S. or launched manufacturing operations under non-Chinese brands. For example, Volvo, owned by Geely, operates a plant in South Carolina and may announce new U.S. business plans within the next two to three years. BYD has entered the U.S. market through electric buses but has not yet revealed plans for passenger vehicle sales. Xiaomi has also stated it currently has no intention of entering the U.S. automotive market.