Shanghai

CHINESE state-owned car giants such as SAIC Motor Corp and Dongfeng Motor Group Co may see billions of dollars in profits evaporate if the government lifts protectionist measures and lets foreign companies operate without a local partner.

China requires overseas carmakers such as General Motors Co, Toyota Motor Corp and Volkswagen AG to form joint ventures with locals in order to sell their brands in the world's biggest market. The policy enacted two decades ago capped foreign investment at 50 per cent, helping local brands develop manufacturing expertise while still profiting from sales of foreign marques.