Donald Trump has issued a firm directive to Canadian company Bombardier, insisting they halt aircraft sales in the U.S. unless production occurs domestically. Trump’s post on Truth Social declared, “NO MORE SELLING BOMBARDIER IN THE UNITED STATES! Their products aren’t good enough!” This statement highlighted that over 50% of Bombardier’s revenue is derived from American customers, while Canada reportedly restricts companies like Gulfstream Aerospace from entering their market.
Despite Newsweek’s inquiry to the White House, they received no comment beyond what Trump shared on social media. Bombardier also did not respond before publication. This demand coincides with Ottawa’s impending enactment of retaliatory tariffs, the latest in an ongoing trade conflict.
Canada is set to implement counter-tariffs on more than 700 American products, some potentially reaching 50%, matching the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on Canadian goods like hockey sticks and tongue depressors. Bombardier’s planes remain popular among U.S. celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Jay-Z.
Trump’s ongoing rhetoric about Bombardier echoes similar threats made earlier this year, which never materialized. He had previously announced decertification of Bombardier Global Express jets and suggested 50% tariffs on Canadian aircraft until Gulfstream products received certification from the Canadian regulator.
“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,” Trump posted in January.
After Canada certified several Gulfstream models, including G500 through G800, the dispute quieted until Trump’s latest pronouncement. This resurgence is amid tensions with Prime Minister Mark Carney and other related trade disagreements.
Approximately half of Bombardier’s aircraft fleet operates in the U.S. Bombardier runs a defense division in Wichita, Kansas, custom-modifying planes for military use. Though renowned figures like Kylie Jenner own Bombardier jets, the clientele also encompasses corporations, charter firms, and fractional-ownership operators.
The broad financial impact is significant, with Bombardier projected to earn $10.2 billion by 2026, with more than $5 billion attributed to U.S. sales. In the second quarter, revenue increased 6% year-over-year, while Bombardier shares fell sharply following Trump’s social media post.
The US-Canada Trade War
Trade negotiations between Washington and Ottawa broke down in August following three days of talks. Trump’s administration imposed 50% tariffs on about $20 billion worth of Canadian products. Canada offered to remove tariffs on U.S. steel, aluminum, autos, and lift restrictions on alcohol if Washington adjusted its demands.
Both governments hold differing outlooks on the failed negotiations. Canada’s Prime Minister rejected U.S. demands perceived as excessive. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer countered that they presented concessionary moves dismissed by Canada.
Ottawa plans to counter with new tariffs on $27.6 billion worth of U.S. goods, ranging from agricultural equipment to electronics. Furthermore, Canada announced $7.5 billion to support those impacted by trade shifts.
The economic bond between the nations is immense, with bilateral trade surmounting hundreds of billions yearly. Canada’s exports to the U.S. totaled two-thirds of July’s figures.
Impact of the Trade Dispute
By 2025, 72% of Canadian merchandise exports headed toward U.S. markets. Conversely, only 15% of U.S. exports reached Canada. Conversely, states like Michigan and Ohio are feeling the trade war effects due to their substantial border ties.
Public opinion varies across affected areas, with some political figures opposing the tariffs. Michigan Representative Lisa McClain supports the tariffs as a chance to “level the playing field.”