Amid reports linking the brand to a potential withdrawal of low-end imports in response to looming 25% tariffs, Mercedes-Benz publicly denied such plans. This statement was intended to reassure consumers and maintain market accessibility at a time when U.S. auto sales were surging, ensuring that affordable options remain available despite political and economic pressures.

The UAW has accused Mercedes-Benz of engaging in anti-union practices at its Alabama plant, including firing pro-union workers, mandating attendance at anti-union meetings, interfering with union advocacy, and surveilling employees. These actions have prompted the union to demand a new election from the NLRB, highlighting concerns over the company's labor practices and its impact on worker rights.

The German government is investigating allegations that Mercedes-Benz violated labor rights at its Alabama plant through aggressive anti-union tactics, including firing union supporters, intimidating workers, and undermining union efforts.

In April 2024, the UAW filed charges against Mercedes-Benz Group AG, alleging an aggressive anti-union campaign at its Alabama plant. The complaint details the firing of a union supporter with a serious illness and other tactics that intimidated workers, violating U.S. labor laws and the German Act on Corporate Due Diligence Obligations in Supply Chains.

A complaint filed under the Supply Chain Act alleges that Mercedes-Benz, along with other German automakers, is implicated in Uyghur forced labor. The allegations point to significant lapses in addressing human rights risks within its supply chains, raising serious ethical concerns.