BRI auto demand elixir for protectionism

Chinese vehicle exports to US minimal, providing level of levy immunity

Chinese vehicles are relatively immune from the United States' tariff impacts due to the limited number of such direct exports to the US and nearly nonexistent sales of domestic brands in that market, said Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association.

Cui highlighted the strong growth potential of Chinese autos in other markets. He stressed the need for Chinese automakers to strengthen partnerships with companies from Belt and Road Initiative-involved regions and southern hemisphere areas.

Specifically, Cui said promoting the use of small-sized electric vehicles in those markets is key to addressing demand for navigating narrow streets due to inadequate infrastructure development in certain regions.