US Lawmakers Urge Mexican President-Elect to Address National Security Concerns

US Lawmakers Urge Mexican President-Elect to Address National Security Concerns

Over 20 Democratic members of the U.S. Congress have written a letter to Mexican President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, expressing national security concerns regarding internet-connected vehicles produced by Chinese automakers in Mexico. The lawmakers argue that the data collected by these vehicles could be used by China for surveillance or even remote control, posing a threat to U.S. security.

Data Concerns and Potential Surveillance

Modern cars and trucks have onboard network hardware that allows for internet access, enabling data sharing with devices inside and outside the vehicle. The U.S. government fears that this data, if under the control of the Chinese Communist Party, could be weaponized for espionage or malicious purposes. “We believe that this body of data poses a national security threat,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter.

Biden’s Proposed Ban and Chinese Response

Last week, President Joe Biden proposed a ban on Chinese software and hardware in connected vehicles on U.S. roads. This move would effectively bar Chinese cars and trucks from the U.S. market and prohibit new vehicles manufactured in Mexico by Chinese automakers. China has rejected these allegations, claiming that the U.S. move is “protectionist” and “has no factual basis.”

China’s Inroads in Mexico and US Tariffs

The Biden administration has taken steps to restrict the sale of Chinese-made automobiles in the United States. Advocacy groups have also warned of unfair competition from heavily subsidized Chinese electric vehicles. In response, Biden has raised tariffs on Chinese-made EVs by 100% and Congress has barred EVs built in China from receiving tax credits.

Mexico as a Base for Market Entry

The lawmakers expressed concerns that Chinese automakers are seeking to use Mexico as a base to enter the U.S. market. They noted that BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, is planning to build a factory in Mexico. “This factory raises the potential for Chinese companies to circumvent U.S. tariffs with production in Mexico,” the letter stated.

Request for Cooperation and Dialogue

The lawmakers urged Sheinbaum to establish a national review and send a delegation to the United States by early 2025 for talks. They believe that addressing these concerns is crucial for preventing Chinese companies from exploiting the Mexican market and potentially threatening U.S. national security.