Blow for Tesla as company forced to stop taking orders in China

Tesla has been forced to stop taking orders for two of its models in China as the automaker struggles to adapt to tariffs imposed by Donald Trump.

Elon Musk’s company has removed the “Order now” button for the Model S sedan and Model X SUV, both of which are imported from the United States.

While Tesla did not officially explain the move, it comes as Washington and Beijing have ramped up their trade war. The U.S. has imposed a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, while China has retaliated with a 125% tariff on American goods.

As a result, vehicles manufactured in the U.S. have become prohibitively expensive and less attractive to Chinese consumers, who have access to more affordable, locally-produced electric cars.

Tesla has operated a megafactory in Shanghai since 2020, where it produces the Model 3 and Model Y, allowing the company to partially avoid the impact of tariffs.

Last month, Tesla warned the U.S. government that rising tariffs could seriously harm American businesses.

(QG - Source: The Guardian - Picture : © Unsplash)