U.S. Suspends Aerospace Technology Exports to China Amid Trade Tensions
New Delhi — June 1, 2025 — In a significant move, the United States has halted the export of certain aerospace technologies to China, specifically targeting state-owned manufacturer Comac, according to industry sources. This decision aligns with China’s recent restrictions on critical mineral exports to the U.S. and indicates an escalation in ongoing trade tensions.
The U.S. measures, which encompass a range of vital technologies, could serve as a potential bargaining chip in broader negotiations regarding the U.S.-China trade dispute, although the duration of the ban remains uncertain. This latest development follows a temporary reduction in tariffs between the two nations on May 12, aimed at easing economic strains.
Comac has been actively working to enhance its domestic capabilities, collaborating with Western firms to manufacture components for its C919 aircraft. However, essential systems such as the CFM International Leap-1C engines and avionics from Honeywell are still reliant on U.S. imports. Notably, exports of the Leap-1A and Leap-1B engines, which power popular models like the A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, are unaffected by this suspension.
The Aero Engine Corp. of China is in the process of developing the CJ-1000A engine as a future alternative for the C919, but availability is still years away. Currently, 18 C919 aircraft are in operation with China’s major state-owned airlines, further underscoring the significance of U.S. technology in Chinese aviation.
Despite the restrictions, industry insiders indicate that Comac has maintained a considerable inventory of engines and spares, allowing continued production and delivery of the C919 for the time being. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, the future of U.S.-China aerospace relations remains uncertain.
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