# BYD global expansion and European production strategy > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/byd-global-expansion-and-european-production-strategy > Updated: 2026-10-27T17:31:34.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2. BYD is navigating geopolitical challenges and trade barriers as part of its effort to become the world’s largest automaker. Executive Vice President Stella Li has identified geopolitical instability and market uncertainty as primary hurdles to global growth, leading the company to temporarily forgo passenger car sales in the United States. To mitigate risks such as the 17 percent additional tariff imposed by the European Union on Chinese-made electric vehicles, BYD is shifting production outside of China. Following the launch of a plant in Szeged, Hungary, the company is actively exploring further European expansion to address new European Commission legislative changes and customs tariffs. As part of this strategy, Stella Li is scheduled to visit Bucharest, Romania, on October 30 for strategic discussions. Romania has emerged as a significant candidate for expansion due to its developed automotive ecosystem, skilled workforce, and established network of local suppliers. BYD’s long-term objectives include opening at least two new factories in Europe, with continued interest in Eastern European locations. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-27: BYD Vice President visits Bucharest amid European expansion plans BYD Vice President Stella Li visits Bucharest to discuss potential expansion in Romania as the Chinese automaker seeks to establish local European production. 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/visa-and-symphopay-partner-to-modernize-payment-services-in-central-and-eastern-europe ### 2026-10-08: BYD identifies geopolitics as primary hurdle to global expansion BYD Executive VP Stella Li identifies geopolitics as the main obstacle to global expansion, citing US market complexities and EU tariffs as key challenges to the automaker's growth plans. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/byd-identifies-geopolitics-as-primary-hurdle-to-global-expansion --- Cite as: BYD global expansion and European production strategy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/byd-global-expansion-and-european-production-strategy