CATL is lobbying for removal from the US Pentagon’s 1260H list of companies tied to China’s military. Co-founder Pan Jian has made multiple US visits, meeting Defense Department officials and arguing its batteries have no military use. Despite presentations and denials, CATL remains on the list amid US-China tensions. The designation risks US contracting access and complicates expansion. CATL is the world’s largest EV battery maker with dominant global share.

2026-04-16

CATL is lobbying for removal from the US Pentagon’s 1260H list of companies tied to China’s military. Co-founder Pan Jian has made multiple US visits, meeting Defense Department officials and arguing its batteries have no military use. Despite presentations and denials, CATL remains on the list amid US-China tensions. The designation risks US contracting access and complicates expansion. CATL is the world’s largest EV battery maker with dominant global share.