US carmakers urge Trump to block Chinese brands ahead of Xi talks

Major US auto industry groups have asked Donald Trump to stay firm on Chinese automakers and avoid opening the market too widely before his meeting with Xi Jinping. The concern is the growing challenge from Chinese brands, increasingly aggressive on electric cars and pricing.

For the sector, any easing of trade barriers could speed up the arrival of new players in North America and make life harder for traditional automakers. In Europe, where Chinese brands are already gaining ground, the issue is being watched closely, including by Italian firms linked to the supply chain.