China aims to open its auto sector wider and deepen ties in the new energy vehicle industry, promoting global partnerships and innovation.
HAIKOU: China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening global cooperation in the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector, as announced by the country’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) during the 2025 World New Energy Vehicle Congress (WNEVC) held in Hainan Province.
Vice Minister Xiong Jijun stated that China will further open its automotive industry and create a collaborative international environment to support the development of new energy vehicles. The vice minister stressed that NEVs are powered by multiple advanced technologies and require extensive cross-sector collaboration to evolve effectively. “We must pursue globalisation, foster a fair and predictable market, and ensure industrial supply chain stability,” said Xiong.
The move to enhance openness in the NEV sector includes lifting foreign ownership limits, which has already enabled global auto brands like Tesla, Lexus, and Volkswagen to expand their presence and partnerships in China. Tesla and Lexus now operate as wholly foreign-owned enterprises, while Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and General Motors have reinforced their joint ventures with local firms.
The WNEVC 2025, a three-day event in Haikou, features conferences, tech showcases, and innovation assessments. It serves as a major platform for stakeholders to engage on NEV trends and technologies.
According to MIIT data, global NEV sales in the first half of the year hit nearly 10 million units, accounting for 21.3% of new car sales — a 4% rise year-on-year. This surge underscores the growing influence of China’s NEV sector on the international stage.
