Christian Meunier, the president of Nissan for the Americas, expressed significant concerns regarding the influx of imported Chinese cars into the Brazilian market, suggesting that these imports threaten local manufacturers. In an interview, he emphasized the necessity for the Brazilian government to take protective measures, particularly through taxation, to safeguard the national industry, workforce, and supply chain. He argued that allowing imported cars to compete freely with those produced locally undermines the efforts of local workers and manufacturers.

Meunier pointed to Mexico as an example, where the government has instituted tariffs on imports from China to protect its automotive industry. This policy decision aligns with similar actions by the United States under former President Donald Trump, highlighting a growing trend among nations to fortify their domestic markets against foreign competition. The Nissan executive believes that Brazil should adopt similar strategies to ensure the stability and competitiveness of its automotive sector.

The implications of implementing such tariffs could be substantial, potentially altering the dynamics of the Brazilian automotive market. If Brazil were to adopt import taxes on Chinese vehicles, it could lead to increased costs for consumers and affect the market share of foreign manufacturers. However, it could also support local car production and preserve jobs in Brazil's automotive supply chain, fostering a more self-sustained economy in the long term. The discussion around these tariffs is indicative of broader global dialogues on trade and industry protectionism.