In a significant escalation of the ongoing trade tensions between China and the United States, Beijing has ordered its carriers to halt deliveries of aircraft from American aerospace giant Boeing.
This move, first reported by Bloomberg News on Tuesday, also includes an instruction to cease purchasing aircraft-related equipment and components from US firms.
The decision marks another chapter in the intensifying trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies, which began with former President Donald Trump’s imposition of "reciprocal tariffs."
Since Trump’s administration took office in January, both nations have engaged in a tit-for-tat trade war. The US has imposed tariffs as high as 145 percent on Chinese imports, while Beijing has retaliated by imposing taxes of up to 125 percent on US goods, denouncing what it terms as Washington's "illegal bullying."
The suspension of Boeing jet deliveries by Chinese carriers, which affects both state-owned and private airlines, is seen as part of Beijing’s broader strategy to counter the US tariffs.
This development could have significant consequences for both the Chinese aviation sector and Boeing, which is one of the most prominent players in the global aerospace industry.
Amidst these rising tensions, China’s foreign ministry issued a statement on Tuesday emphasising its commitment to expanding trade partnerships. Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that China would "tear down walls" and focus on cooperation rather than confrontation.
“In the face of external uncertainties, China will insist on shaking hands rather than shaking fists, tearing down walls instead of building barriers, and connecting instead of decoupling," Lin added during a press briefing.
At the same time, the World Trade Organization (WTO) has issued a warning regarding the escalating trade war, stating that the conflict could lead to a drastic reduction in the flow of goods between China and the US, potentially cutting shipments by as much as 80 percent.
This would have severe implications for global economic growth, further complicating the already fraught relationship between the two superpowers.
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