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[BUSINESS] · United States, China, Spain · 15 sources

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Ford defends US manufacturing amid government concerns over China ties

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has expressed profound concern regarding Ford Motor Company's business ties with Chinese firms, specifically citing its technology licensing deal with CATL for battery production at its Marshall, Michigan plant. Duffy's letter to CEO Jim Farley suggests these arrangements could pose risks to US national and economic security.

Ford has strongly rejected these claims, describing the letter as a “wrongheaded attempt to capture headlines.” The automaker clarified that its relationship with CATL is a limited technology licensing and services agreement, not a joint venture, and emphasized that Ford maintains full ownership and operational control of the Michigan facility. Ford also defended its domestic footprint, asserting it is the most American automaker in terms of US-based production, employment, and exports.

The dispute also touches on Ford's joint venture with Geely in Valencia, Spain, and the company's timeline for moving Lincoln Nautilus production to the United States, which is slated for 2030. While some Republican lawmakers have supported the administration's scrutiny, the White House has expressed support for Ford's domestic investment efforts.

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Almussafes plant · CATL · Ford Motor Company · Geely Auto · Jim Farley · Sean Duffy

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