# Mercedes said 2026 would be a "transition year" for the brand in China.

*business · news · 2026-04-09 · Reuters*

## Key points

- Mercedes' global car sales fell 6% to 419,400 vehicles in the first quarter.
- The sales decline is partly due to phasing out entry-level models before new launches in China.
- Mercedes labeled 2026 as a 'transition year' for its brand in the Chinese market.
- U.S. wholesale growth rebounded after a 19% drop in the previous quarter due to dealer restocking.
- Mercedes plans to increase product localization and value creation in the U.S. to counter import tariffs.

**Companies:** Mercedes
**Countries:** China, United States, Germany

[Read the full story on Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/mercedes-reports-drop-q1-sales-during-transition-year-china-market-2026-04-09/)

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