The United States intends to eliminate the influence of states considered adversaries in the automotive industry, and this could severely affect Mercedes-Benz. The ‘Motor Vehicle Modernization Act of 2026’ bill provides for a ban on the American market for car manufacturers with stakes held by governments from countries such as China, Russia, or North Korea. Mercedes-Benz has two significant stakes: the state-owned Chinese company BAIC, with 9.98%, and businessman Li Shufu, with 9.69%. Although the German company has a significant industrial presence in the U.S., with plants in Alabama and South Carolina, the current wording of the law could also include the German group. Exceptions for companies that have been producing cars in the U.S. for at least five years do not apply to those with foreign stakes. This measure could affect not only Mercedes-Benz but also other car manufacturers with ties to Chinese investors, such as Volvo Cars. Experts warn that the ban could have negative economic consequences, including job losses.
