Mercedes-Benz Likely To Escape US Ban Despite Nearly 20 Percent Chinese Ownership

Mercedes-Benz, which manufactures sport utility vehicles in Alabama and operates a van plant in South Carolina, is at the center of a proposed U.S. ban aimed at Chinese automakers. The Senate Commerce Committee’s measure would bar any automaker with more than 15% Chinese ownership from selling in the U.S. Mercedes has nearly 20% Chinese ownership through groups including Geely and Beijing Automotive, putting it directly over the threshold. Lawmakers are now negotiating changes after Mercedes flagged the risk. Sponsors have delayed a permanent vote until November, and if the bill passes as written, Mercedes would have until 2030 to comply.