Growing Chinese competition in Mideast car market 'key challenge,' Ford says
Chinese automotive companies are increasing their market share and are projected to capture 34% of the Middle East and Africa market by 2030, according to one analysis.
The main challenges for the Middle East’s automotive market are increasing competition from new entrants, mainly from China, as well as supply chain complexities and the global shift towards electric vehicles, according to Ford’s regional head.
The American carmaker's sales growth of 15% for the first six months of 2025 was largely from the Gulf markets, particularly Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait. Although Ford remains one of the top five vehicle manufacturers in the region, the company is facing increasing competition for market share with new entrants.
China makes inroads
In an interview with Al-Monitor, Ravi Ravichandran, president of Ford Middle East and North Africa, said, “A key challenge is the rapid growth and entry of competitive brands — mainly Chinese brands — intensifying the market and increasing consumer choice.”
