Trump's Shocking Plan: Chinese EV Invasion of US — Only with American Workers

US President Donald Trump has signaled openness to allowing Chinese electric vehicle makers like BYD to build factories on American soil—but only if they hire American workers. The announcement comes as Washington maintains a de facto ban on importing Chinese cars.

What Did Trump Say About Geely and Chinese EVs?

In a Fox News interview, Trump ruled out opening the US market to imported Chinese vehicles. Referring to Chinese President Xi Jinping, he said, "We don't allow his cars to come into the United States, and we never have." He added that without those restrictions, the US market would have been flooded with these vehicles. The message is dual: no imports, yes to domestic manufacturing.

American Labor Condition... Opportunity or Stalling Tactic?

Trump didn't stop at imports—he set a clear condition: "If China wants to come in and open a plant to produce cars here, I'm fine with that. Japan does it, but they have to hire our workers. The most important thing is they hire our workers and use them." Analysts suggest this stance could pave the way for massive Chinese investment in US EV manufacturing, especially amid intensifying global competition.

Why Are Chinese EVs Worrying Washington?

Low-cost, tech-loaded Chinese EVs from companies like BYD and Geely Automobile Holdings are rapidly gaining global market share. They have already appeared in Canada and Mexico, heightening fears among US automakers that they could soon try to crack the American market. Currently, Chinese cars are effectively blocked by high tariffs and a Commerce Department ban tied to national security concerns over connected vehicle systems.

Back in January, at the Detroit Economic Club in the heart of the US auto industry, Trump expressed openness to letting Chinese automakers manufacture inside the United States, saying: "Let China come in." These remarks come weeks before a planned summit with Xi in Washington, adding anticipation across the global auto industry.