Hyundai Motor CEO Jose Munoz has warned that the US automotive market could face significant disruption from Chinese manufacturers if current import restrictions are lifted. Munoz pointed to the UK and Europe as examples where the absence of barriers has allowed Chinese brands to gain substantial market share.
Currently, Chinese electric vehicles face tariffs of approximately 100 percent in the US, which effectively limits their presence. However, concerns have grown following comments from President Donald Trump, who suggested he would welcome Chinese automakers if they build factories and hire workers within the United States.
The American Automotive Policy Council, representing Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, has pushed back against the prospect of Chinese automakers entering the US. The council cited concerns over state subsidies and non-market advantages. Ford CEO Jim Farley previously noted that Chinese brands could enter the US market within five to ten years.
In the UK, where there are no tariffs, Chinese brands account for 15 percent of new car registrations. While the EU has implemented tariffs on Chinese EVs due to unfair state subsidies, Munoz claims that Chinese vehicles remain 30–40 percent cheaper in some markets compared to local alternatives.
