By Allison Lampert
(Reuters) – America’s largest aviation trade group opened the door to discussions on specific tariffs on Friday, after President-elect Donald Trump proposed tariffs on countries such as Mexico and Canada.
The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), which represents U.S. aerospace and defense giants such as Boeing (NYSE: ) and General Dynamics (NYSE: ), weighed in on the prospect of tariffs for the first time, saying in a statement that it would discuss how to adjust to protect national security and key industries.
The statement did not provide details.
“We are eager to work with the Trump administration to discuss where tariff policy can support our products, while also ensuring that the industry is empowered to continue to grow in a way that supports U.S. national security needs and maintains our position as a leading high-tech, manufacturing sector focused on the US,” the statement said.
Trump’s warning in November of possible 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada had already prompted threats of retaliation from Ottawa and raised concerns among sectors such as auto that the move could hit US industry.
In 2023, Canada was the largest importing country and the third largest exporting destination for aircraft and defense trade with the United States, according to the AIA. Mexico was not in the top five.
