According to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), Brazil was the largest destination for Chinese exports of new-energy vehicles between January and August 2026, with 337,100 units, up 159.4% on the same period a year earlier.

The CPCA's secretary-general, Cui Dongshu, said that Chinese vehicles remain competitive in Brazil. He added that the expansion of local production should increase trade in assembly kits and automotive components.

In the state of Bahia, BYD hit the milestone of 100,000 vehicles assembled at its Camaçari plant in July. In September, the company reported having more than 8,000 direct employees and announced plans to hire a further 1,500, with a view to expanding production shifts.

Great Wall Motor (GWM) has also expanded its operations in Iracemápolis, in the state of São Paulo. By August, the plant had produced more than 15,000 vehicles. The workforce grew from around 600, at the start of operations, to more than 1,800 workers. The plant carries out welding of body shells, painting and final assembly.

Liu Yan, an expert at the Alliance for the Innovation and International Development of Chinese Automakers, noted that local production and an improved sales network could support the expansion of Chinese brands into South American markets.

(Source: Xinhua Português, 22 October)