**
In a bold move that could reshape transatlantic trade relations, U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to decertify all aircraft manufactured in Canada, specifically targeting Bombardier’s Global Express jets. This decision comes in response to what Trump describes as Canada’s failure to certify Gulfstream’s latest jet models, a claim he made via social media on Thursday evening.
Allegations Against Canada
In his post, Trump asserted that Canada has “wrongfully, illegally, and steadfastly refused to certify the Gulfstream 500, 600, 700, and 800 jets.” He declared, “We are hereby decertifying their Bombardier Global Expresses, and all Aircraft made in Canada, until such time as Gulfstream, a Great American Company, is fully certified, as it should have been many years ago.” The President’s comments echo a broader sentiment of economic nationalism that has characterised his administration.
Potential Tariffs Loom
The stakes are high, as Trump warned that failure to rectify this situation could lead to a staggering 50-per-cent tariff on all Canadian aircraft sold in the United States. This threat represents a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two nations, which have historically enjoyed a robust economic relationship.
Trump’s animosity towards Canada appears to have intensified following a notable speech by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 20. In his address, Carney called for middle powers to unite against economic coercion from larger nations, implicitly addressing the U.S. The speech received widespread acclaim, prompting Trump to respond critically during his own address at the forum, accusing Carney of ingratitude and subsequently revoking an invitation for Canada to participate in his controversial “Board of Peace.”
Escalation of Tensions
Tensions escalated further when Trump, in a recent social media post, threatened to impose 100-per-cent tariffs on Canada over a limited trade deal with China concerning electric vehicles and agriculture. He referred to Carney as a “governor,” a term that reflects his dismissive attitude toward the Canadian leadership. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent later clarified that such tariffs would only be enacted if Canada were to sign a free-trade agreement with China, a move that Carney has firmly stated Ottawa has no plans to pursue.
The implications of these developments extend far beyond the aviation sector. The threat of tariffs could have a ripple effect on various industries reliant on cross-border trade between the United States and Canada, potentially impacting jobs and economic stability in both nations.
Why it Matters
This situation underscores the fragility of international trade relationships in an era marked by rising protectionism. The potential decertification of Canadian aircraft and the imposition of hefty tariffs could strain not only the aviation industry but also broader economic ties between the U.S. and Canada. As both nations navigate these turbulent waters, the outcome will likely set a precedent for how transatlantic trade disputes are handled in the future. The stakes are high, and the world will be watching closely as these developments unfold.
