Concerns about malware, bloatware, or spyware (on small phone made in China)?

I've been looking at small phones from Unihertz, Blackview, and others, and have a concern and questions about phone made in China (particularly by Chinese companies with ties to their government) being used in the US:

  1. Should anyone purchasing one be concerned about possible malware, bloatware, and/or spyware?

  2. If you have heard of problems, if you know of a reliable source for details, or even a link, that would be nice. (I imagine there a lot of rumors and speculation around, and I solid information is important.)

  3. Also, even if the do have such software , can it be removed successfully?

Thanks in advance!