By Eve Nowell 
Ford CEO Jim Farley met with senior Trump administration officials last month to discuss a potential framework that would allow Chinese automakers to build vehicles in the United States through joint ventures with American companies, according to people familiar with the matter. The discussions centered on a structure in which U.S. automakers would hold controlling stakes in the ventures while sharing profits and technology with Chinese partners.
The talks took place during the Detroit Auto Show, where Farley met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin. The conversations occurred days after President Donald Trump indicated he would consider allowing Chinese automakers to enter the U.S. market if they established manufacturing plants and hired American workers. Ford later confirmed that Farley toured the officials through the company’s display and discussed a range of industry topics but did not provide specifics.
People familiar with the discussions said Farley was not advocating for joint ventures as a preferred outcome but raised the concept as a possible way to protect American interests if Chinese manufacturers gained access to the U.S. market. The proposal reportedly received a cool reception from Trump officials, who believed it would face significant opposition in Washington. However, some administration figures view a potential investment arrangement as a possible topic during Trump’s planned April meeting in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The discussions come as Chinese automakers expand their presence globally. China-based brands have increased market share in Europe, Mexico, and South America, offering lower-cost electric vehicles equipped with advanced battery and infotainment technology. Canada recently outlined plans to allow some Chinese EV imports, and Chinese vehicles have become more common in Mexico.
General Motors has reportedly expressed opposition to Chinese automakers entering the U.S. market, citing concerns about lost market share and the impact on North American suppliers. Broader resistance within the administration reflects economic and national security considerations.
Farley has previously described China’s automotive industry as a serious competitive force. At the same time, Ford has pursued selective partnerships with Chinese battery and technology firms while developing its own lower-cost electric vehicle platform targeted for launch in 2027.
The discussions remain informal, and no agreement has been announced.
Source
John Lloyd 
Elizabeth Puckett