Spain's Defence Ministry will approve SAIC's plan to build a car factory in Galicia despite media reports that intelligence services had warned about potential espionage risks linked to the site's proximity to Ferrol, a key port for the Spanish navy. The state-owned Chinese carmaker intends to build up to 120,000 MG-brand cars a year, with construction scheduled to start in 2027 and operations beginning in 2028. The project will still need clearance from a Strategic Investments Committee, which may impose conditions including on security, although the ministry said it has expressed no concern regarding security. SAIC is among a growing group of Chinese car and battery makers choosing Spain for new plants, helping revive regions affected by factory closures.