Mercedes-Benz Faces U.S. Market Ban Due to 20% Chinese Ownership

The Senate Commerce Committee advanced legislation that could ban Chinese automakers from the U.S. market but also risk excluding Mercedes-Benz (MBGAF) due to 20% ownership by Chinese investors. Chairman Ted Cruz noted that BAIC and Geely founder Li Shufu collectively own nearly 20% of Mercedes-Benz shares, which exceeds the bill's 15% Chinese ownership threshold. The legislation aims to restrict Chinese vehicle technology in response to national security concerns. This development could impact Mercedes-Benz's operations in the U.S., where it employs over 10,000 people and operates assemblies in Alabama and South Carolina.