Anfac’s Markus Haupt: Chinese Auto Brands Must Produce in Europe
Markus Haupt urges Chinese automakers to produce in Europe, signaling industry shift
Markus Haupt, newly appointed president of Spain’s automotive industry association Anfac, demanded Chinese brands manufacturing in Europe during his first public address, citing concerns over fair competition and regional industrial sustainability. The statement comes as Spanish automakers face rising pressure from Chinese imports and declining domestic production.
Why the push for local production? A sector in flux
Spain’s automotive sector, responsible for 9% of the country’s GDP and 2 million jobs, is navigating a critical juncture. In 2025, Chinese brands captured 10.2% of the Spanish market, up from negligible presence in 2024, according to data from the Spanish Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAM). Haupt’s call for local production aligns with broader European efforts to protect manufacturing jobs amid a 20% market share protected by EU regulations for electric vehicles, as noted by Josep María Recasens, former Anfac president.
“They invited us to their industry 50 years ago; now we must ensure they follow the same rules,” Haupt stated, referencing historical trade dynamics. The push mirrors similar measures in Germany, where the government recently introduced incentives for electric vehicle factories to stay within the EU.
Regional ripple effects: Madrid, Barcelona, and the Basque Country
The directive has immediate implications for Spain’s industrial hubs. Madrid, home to Seat’s headquarters, and Barcelona, a key logistics node, face heightened scrutiny over supply chain resilience. The Basque Country, a traditional manufacturing heartland, has seen a 12% decline in automotive jobs since 2020, according to the Basque Government’s 2025 labor report. Local officials warn that without action, the region risks losing its competitive edge.
“Our factories are ready for electrification, but we need demand to match,” said María López, director of the Madrid Industrial Development Agency. “If Chinese brands don’t invest here, we risk becoming a market without a manufacturing base.”
Expert voices: Legal and economic perspectives
Legal experts emphasize the complexity of balancing trade agreements with local industry needs. “The EU’s current regulations protect 20% of the market, but that’s not enough,” said Javier Fernández, a Barcelona-based trade law professor. “We need a framework that incentivizes investment without triggering WTO disputes.”
Economist Ana Torres highlighted the broader implications: “Spain’s ability to retain production hinges on policies that align with the European Green Deal. Without that, we’ll see a repeat of the 2010s, when factories moved to Eastern Europe for lower costs.”
Directory Bridge: Navigating the new landscape
Automotive executives are turning to specialized legal and economic advisors to navigate the evolving regulatory environment. [Commercial Law Firms] in Madrid and [Industrial Policy Consultants] in Barcelona are reporting increased inquiries about compliance with EU production mandates. Meanwhile, [Trade Advocacy Groups] are lobbying for streamlined subsidies for electric vehicle infrastructure.
For businesses seeking to adapt, [Regional Economic Development Agencies] offer tailored support. “Our role is to connect companies with the resources they need to thrive in this new era,” said Luis Martínez, a representative from the Andalusian Investment Board.
The race to secure Europe’s automotive future
Haupt’s tenure at Anfac coincides with the rollout of the Plan España Auto 2030, a strategy aimed at solidifying Spain’s position as Europe’s second-largest automaker. The plan includes €5 billion in public and private investments for battery production and charging networks, according to the Spanish Ministry of Industry. However, success depends on consumer adoption and regulatory clarity.
“If we don’t act now, we’ll lose the next decade of growth,” Haupt warned. “The window is closing, and the stakes have never been higher.”
What happens next? A sector under pressure
The coming months will test the resilience of Spain’s automotive industry. Chinese automakers like BYD and NIO have already announced plans to establish distribution centers in Spain, but production facilities remain under discussion. Meanwhile, European Union officials are debating revisions to the 20% local production rule, with some members pushing for a 30% threshold by 2030.
As the sector braces for change, one question looms: Can Spain’s automotive heartland adapt to a world where global competition and local priorities collide?
Editorial Kicker
“The future of European manufacturing isn’t just about rules—it’s about relationships,” said Recasens, now at Indra. “If we don’t build them, someone else will.”