US President Donald Trump has said he would be open to Chinese automobile companies producing vehicles inside the United States if they employ American workers.

Trump made the comments during an interview with Fox News, saying his main concern is that American workers should benefit from such manufacturing activity. He pointed to the approach taken by companies from countries such as Japan, which operate manufacturing facilities in the United States and employ local workers.

Trump said he could support Chinese automakers building vehicles in the United States, but he does not support Chinese companies manufacturing cars in Mexico and then sending them into the American market.

The proposal comes as Chinese automakers continue to face strong opposition from several US lawmakers and domestic automobile manufacturers.

The issue has become an important part of the wider debate over trade, manufacturing and the future of the American auto industry.

Trump's position could open a different path for Chinese companies that want access to the US market. Instead of producing vehicles outside the United States and exporting them, companies could potentially manufacture vehicles locally and employ American workers.

However, the idea continues to face resistance in the United States. Some lawmakers and industry representatives have raised concerns about Chinese government support for automakers and the technology used in connected vehicles.

The discussion also comes as Washington maintains restrictions on Chinese vehicles and continues to examine how Chinese automobile companies should be treated in the US market.