KATHMANDU: U.S. President Donald Trump has said he is open to Chinese electric vehicle makers entering the American market, provided they build factories in the United States and employ local workers.
Speaking at the Detroit Economic Club on January 13, Trump said foreign automakers would be welcomed if they invest in US manufacturing. He specifically mentioned China and Japan, stating that companies are free to enter as long as they create jobs for Americans.
Chinese automakers have been exploring the U.S. market for years, attracted by its position as the world’s second-largest auto market after China. Several Chinese brands were present at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas last week, indicating growing interest in a U.S. launch.
Geely, the parent company of Volvo and Polestar, confirmed at CES that it is actively evaluating a direct entry into the U.S. market. If approved, it would become the first major Chinese automaker to sell vehicles in the US under its own brand name.
U.S. automakers are closely watching these developments. Ford CEO Jim Farley has publicly praised China’s Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan. Market studies also indicate that car buyers under 44 years of age in the US are increasingly open to purchasing Chinese EVs.
Analysts note that while increased competition could pressure traditional US automakers, local manufacturing by foreign brands could also generate jobs and offer more affordable EV options.
