U.S. Lawmakers Urge Trump to Maintain Ban on Chinese Automakers

Twenty-seven Democratic lawmakers have urged President Donald Trump to maintain restrictions on Chinese automakers and connected-vehicle technologies in the U.S. market ahead of his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, David Shepardson reported for Reuters.

Rep. Debbie Dingell led 27 Democratic lawmakers urging the Trump administration to maintain restrictions on Chinese automakers and connected-vehicle technologies. [Photo: Great Wall Motor Technical Center Europe GmbH LinkedIn]

The lawmakers, led by Rep. Debbie Dingell, said the administration should maintain protections against Chinese automobiles and connected-vehicle technologies and prevent Chinese companies from gaining access to the U.S. market through direct imports, local production or other avenues.

“We urge you to maintain strong protections against Chinese automobiles and connected vehicle technologies,” the lawmakers said in a letter to Trump, according to Reuters.

The letter came ahead of Trump's scheduled meeting with Xi, as the two governments continued discussions on trade, technology and other areas of their economic relationship.

Earlier this month, Trump told Fox News that he would accept Chinese car companies building vehicles in the United States.

The possibility of Chinese automakers establishing U.S. manufacturing operations has raised concerns among some U.S. lawmakers and domestic automakers about competition, supply chains and connected-vehicle technology.

The lawmakers' request represents their position; it does not establish that the administration will maintain the existing restrictions.