The Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) expressed concern about potential consequences of a growing trade dispute in light of the recent announcements for planned new tariffs on U.S. and Chinese goods. “The newly proposed tariff announcements might affect a certain weight category of business jet aircraft being imported into China,” AsBAA chair Jenny Lau wrote in a memo to members. “This could influence buyers' decision making, having an effect on manufacturers and the wider business aviation industry, although it is too early to predict the magnitude of any potential impact.”

The Aerospace Industries Association has warned about potential increased costs U.S. aerospace manufacturers will face as a result of U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum. The Chinese tariffs, meanwhile, could hit Gulfstream and Boeing Business Jet sales.

Lau noted that the tariffs could affect not only business jet manufacturers, but also the supply chain. “AsBAA does not comment on public policy; however, we are concerned about the consequences of a growing trade dispute in the medium term,” she said. “AsBAA’s priority is to continue to represent the needs of our members, advocating the positive economic impact business aviation brings while finding solutions that allow business and trade to continue as normal, despite these political issues."

Lau expects that topic to be a focus of discussion at ABACE later this month in Shanghai. She added, however, that the bigger picture of the business jet market in China and Asia remains bright and advised members “to treat these announcements with caution while we await further clarity on the potential impact of the tariffs before we take any necessary actions to counter such measures.”