Chinese Car Brands Gain Ground in Mexico as Traditional Automakers Lose Share

Mexico City — Chinese automakers are rapidly gaining ground in Mexico’s automotive market, squeezing traditional brands, according to a Scotiabank study.

Nissan’s market share slipped to 16.8 percent in the first half of 2026 from 18 percent a year earlier, the study found. Meanwhile, the group classed as “other competitors” — which includes Chinese brands — increased its presence to 11.1 percent from 9.2 percent over the same period.

Other brands also saw declines. Acura’s sales volume contracted 1 percent, Suzuki dropped 16 percent, and Fiat fell 37 percent. Luxury brands BMW and Volvo also retreated, with declines of 5 percent and 43 percent, respectively.

Some Chinese manufacturers also posted lower volumes: JAC dropped 5 percent to 11,468 units, and Great Wall Motors fell 9 percent to 6,516 units, hit by competition from their own compatriots.

At an event marking an alliance with Tecnológico de Monterrey (Monterrey Institute of Technology) focused on autonomous and intelligent mobility solutions, Bryan Wu, general director of Geely Mexico, said the company’s global strength already has a clear trajectory in the country.

“During the first half of 2026, we entered a new stage of consolidation: we reached 23,121 units sold, meaning that in just six months of this year we already surpassed total sales of last year,” Wu said.

He highlighted that the strategy includes social initiatives, such as environmental responsibility, and strategic collaborations with academic institutions.

Scotiabank said there is greater competitive pressure from new market entrants, which have gained ground over traditional automakers.