A group representing nearly all major automakers has urged US lawmakers to approve a permanent ban on Chinese vehicles when Congress returns next week for a short session following the midterm elections. The appeal comes as supporters of a bipartisan Senate bill seek to move the measure forward before the current session ends in December.

John Bozzella, head of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, said Chinese imports could pose surveillance risks and undermine manufacturers that have invested in US communities. The group represents General Motors, Toyota, Volkswagen and other major automakers.

In September, the Senate proposal’s authors agreed to delay efforts to fast-track the bill until November, despite what the report described as overwhelming support. The Senate committee approved the measure in July, while a House version has more than 100 co-sponsors. Automakers and legislative aides hope it can still pass this year, though some believe there may not be enough time if Democrats take control of Congress.

Bozzella pointed to Chinese vehicle sales in Europe, saying the European Union imported more than 1.1 million vehicles from China in the first eight months of 2026—more than in all of 2025. He argued that Congress should protect US manufacturing and defense capabilities and prevent Chinese automakers from gaining a foothold in the United States.

The report says a regulation introduced by the Biden administration in early 2025 effectively barred Chinese automakers from selling or manufacturing passenger vehicles in the United States, citing concerns that sensitive driver data could be sent to China. The United States also maintains tariffs of more than 100% on Chinese electric vehicles.

President Donald Trump said in September that he would accept Chinese automakers manufacturing cars in the United States, a comment that alarmed the industry. China’s Foreign Ministry has previously urged the United States to respect market-economy laws and fair competition, calling earlier proposals targeting Chinese companies “unreasonable suppression.”

Sources: Folha Mercado.