China’s BYD is struggling to expand its presence in India due to ongoing political tensions that have restricted key business activities, Bloomberg reported.
Following a 2020 border clash, Chinese firms including BYD have faced difficulties obtaining visas for executives. BYD has held board meetings in Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Singapore due to the inability of senior staff to operate locally.
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Ketsu Zhang, BYD’s India chief, remains unable to obtain a work permit and now oversees operations from Tokyo. “An on-the-ground presence is particularly important for manufacturers,” a person familiar with the matter said.
Despite rising EV sales in India, BYD’s $1 billion proposal to build a factory was rejected by Indian authorities, citing strategic concerns. The company continues to rely on its Chennai assembly plant, with most vehicles still imported at high tariffs.
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While India has resumed tourist visas for Chinese nationals, there is no sign yet of easing professional restrictions.