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US aero group open to discussing tariffs to protect natl

security and key industry

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Industry worried about impact of tariffs on U.S.jobs

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Trump said he could hit Canada, Mexico with 25% tariffs

By Allison Lampert

Jan 17 (Reuters) - The largest U.S. aerospace trade

group on Friday opened the door to discussions on specific

tariffs, after incoming President-elect Donald Trump suggested

slapping duties on countries like Mexico and Canada.

Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), which represents

U.S. planemaking and defense giants like Boeing ( BA ) and

General Dynamics ( GD ), waded in on the prospect of tariffs for

the first time, saying in a statement it would discuss how to

tailor them to protect national security and key industries.

The statement did not give specifics.

"We are eager to work with the Trump administration to

discuss where tariff policy may support our products, while also

ensuring the industry is empowered to continue growing in a way

that supports U.S. national security needs and maintains our

position as a leading high-technology, U.S.-centered

manufacturing sector," the statement said.

Trump's warning in November about potential 25% tariffs on

imports from Mexico and Canada have already triggered threats of

retaliation from Ottawa and raised concerns among sectors like

automotive that the move could also hit U.S. industry.

In 2023, Canada was the top import country and third largest

export destination for aerospace and defense trade with the

United States, according to AIA. Mexico was not among the top

five.