Beijing on Monday deemed “discriminatory” a possible ban on sales to the United States of connected vehicles incorporating Chinese and Russian technology in the name of national security, a measure not confirmed by Washington but relayed in the press.
“China opposes the US’s broadening of the concept of national security and discriminatory measures against Chinese companies and products,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said when asked about the issue.
The ban, which Bloomberg and several American media outlets reported on Sunday, would represent a toughening of the American administration’s approach toward China. Washington has not yet made any official announcement to that effect.
“China will resolutely defend its legitimate rights and interests,” Lin Jian warned at a regular press briefing.
He called on the United States to provide a “fair” trade environment for Chinese companies. In mid-September, Washington announced that electric cars imported from China would be taxed 100% from September 27. There are no Chinese-brand vehicles sold in the United States today. But some Western manufacturers, such as Volvo, a Swedish group but controlled by the Chinese company Geely, Polestar, Buick (GM group) or Lincoln (a subsidiary of Ford) sell cars made in China there.
The American manufacturer Tesla also produces electric vehicles in China for export. Electronics are increasingly integrated into modern cars and most vehicles are now connected to the internet via a navigation system.
Sami Nemli With Agency / Les Inspirations ÉCO
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