Trump: Chinese Automakers Can Build Cars in U.S.

President Trump announced on Friday that he would allow Chinese automakers to set up manufacturing plants in the United States, a move that comes amid protests from American carmakers who fear increased competition. The former president made the statement during an interview with Fox News host Laura Ingraham on “The Ingraham Angle,” noting that foreign firms already operate U.S. facilities and that the policy would level the playing field.

In the interview, Trump said, “If China wanted to come in and open a plant to build their cars here, I’d be OK with it,” adding that “Japan does it, …” to illustrate that other major auto producers already have a presence in the U.S. market. The comment follows a growing debate over trade policy and domestic manufacturing incentives, with U.S. automakers urging protection for local jobs and supply chains.

The announcement is expected to prompt further discussion among policymakers and industry stakeholders about the balance between attracting foreign investment and safeguarding domestic automotive employment. The U.S. government will likely need to clarify any regulatory changes that would accompany the decision.