Trump threatens tariffs over planes, oil

Donald Trump has renewed trade tensions by threatening steep tariffs on Canadian-made aircraft and on countries that supply oil to Cuba, underscoring a more aggressive use of trade policy to pursue economic and geopolitical aims. The comments have unsettled aviation and energy markets, raising concerns about regulatory overreach and supply chain disruption.

The president said he was considering tariffs of up to 50 per cent on aircraft built in Canada, accusing Ottawa of unfairly refusing to certify planes manufactured by US business jet maker Gulfstream. In a social media post, Trump also claimed he was decertifying all aircraft made in Canada, though White House officials later clarified that planes already in operation would not be affected. The episode nevertheless sparked uncertainty across the aviation sector, given the close integration of US and Canadian aerospace supply chains.

Canada is a major exporter of business jets and regional aircraft to the United States, with Canadian-built planes playing a significant role in short-haul and feeder routes operated by US airlines. Industry experts have questioned whether the president has the authority to intervene directly in aircraft certification, which is normally handled by aviation safety regulators. Manufacturers and airlines warned that broad action could disrupt air travel, particularly for smaller communities that rely heavily on regional jets.

Separately, Trump pledged to impose tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba, as part of an intensified effort to pressure the island’s communist government. An executive order outlined the intent but did not specify which countries would be targeted or the level of tariffs involved. The administration has framed the move as a response to national security concerns, while critics argue it risks exacerbating humanitarian and energy shortages in Cuba.

The oil measures build on earlier actions that have already tightened fuel supplies to the island, contributing to rolling blackouts and economic strain. Cuba has defended its right to import fuel from willing suppliers and criticised what it describes as unilateral coercive measures by Washington.

Together, the threats highlight a strategy that blends trade policy with diplomatic pressure. Linking aircraft certification to trade disputes risks politicising safety regulation, while oil-related tariffs extend US leverage beyond bilateral relationships. For businesses and investors, the episode adds to uncertainty around cross-border trade, as tariffs and regulatory threats are increasingly used as negotiating tools rather than last-resort measures.

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