idk how tariffs work these days, and i'm in Europe, so things differ.
Given your weight, i'd say, dont go under 33mm rims and 32C tyres. I would make space in the budget for GP5000 tyres, because good tyres transform a bike. Peter from Xiamen carbon speed has the D50CU-33, for eg, but you can find cheaper on AliX with coupons. Aim for 50mm depth, if not 55 or 60. If you dont care about aerodynamics, you can get Elite wheels in 28mm width for cheap, they will perform.
Dont get ICAN wheels, you're paying for the brand, it doesnt make sense budget wise.
go w TPU tubes from Alix, cheaper than tubeless (starting w tyres that are cheaper if not tubeless ready).

Frame, other than avoiding Airwolf on Alix, lots of people are buying here are buying alix frames, and they seem satisfied, ultimately. if you go w VB, always take the most recent road model, for various reasons, so that'd be 268, not 168.

A finishing kit can be competent and cheap. narrow alu bars, stem, 50$ for a competent crankset, 20-25$ for a steel cassette, 10$ for a saddle, £20 for pedals, $5-10 for rotors, the other bits and bobs are even cheaper, and so on.

Thanks for all the advice — super helpful. I’m currently looking at the Ellite ENT 2.0 Disc frame on AliExpress. It’s $400 shipped and fits 32mm tires, so seems like a good match. I’ll try TPU tubes first like you suggested. Also appreciate the tips on avoiding ICAN and Airwolf — that helps narrow it down.

Are there any specific frame brands or sellers on AliExpress you’d recommend checking out?

Hey all,
I’m looking to build a value-focused carbon road bike around $1,500–1,700 total. I realize I might be pushing that budget given my wish list, but hence using chinese parts im looking to get some great value.

What I’m aiming for:
   •   Carbon frame with endurance or race geometry (Velobuild VB-R168?)
   •   Electronic groupset (LTWOO ERX or ER9?)
   •   Lightweight carbon wheels (ICAN Alpha 40 Plus Disc)
   •   Reliable QC and overall performance

About me:
   •   I’m 6’0” 180lbs, typically ride a 58cm
   •   Not new to bikes, but new to the Chinese direct market
        •      I live in California on the coast, lots of hills and side winds when close to the beach

I realize that my expectations for this price point may be pushing it, so if there are aluminum frames, im happy to be in that world as well.

Any advice or build suggestions would be appreciated—especially if you’ve put together something similar. Thanks!