China Considers Including BYD in Delegation for US Summit, Sources Say

Chinese officials are considering including electric vehicle giant BYD Co. (SZSE:002594) in a business delegation that would join President Xi Jinping for a summit with Donald Trump in Washington on Sept. 24, according to a Bloomberg report citing people familiar with the matter. The potential inclusion of the automaker comes at a time of significant trade friction between the two countries, particularly in the EV sector.

A Symbolic Choice Amid Trade Friction

The selection of BYD founder Wang Chuanfu for the delegation would represent a pointed message from Beijing. The move follows the imposition of 100% tariffs by the United States on Chinese-made electric vehicles, a policy that effectively blocks them from the American market.

Adding to the tensions, the Pentagon blacklisted the EV manufacturer in June over alleged connections to the Chinese military. For its part, BYD has firmly denied any claims that it supports the People's Liberation Army.

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Delegation Selection Underway

According to the report, senior officials, including Xi’s chief of staff Cai Qi, are currently reviewing a list of Chinese business leaders for the state visit. The sources noted that the list is not yet final and remains subject to change.

The criteria for selecting executives reportedly include having a potential US deal in progress, demonstrating loyalty to the Communist Party, and having a reputation for not detracting attention from President Xi. The South China Morning Post reported last week that several Chinese industry chiefs being considered are still waiting for US visas.