US can keep edge over China aviation by staying integrated with it: advisory panel expert

The United States should keep China integrated into its aviation industry supply chains to maintain control over the country’s ability to develop, an expert told a US government advisory panel on Thursday.

The recommendation was among dozens made over several hours of testimony in a US-China Economic and Security Review Commission [USCC] hearing called to assess Beijing’s industrial ambitions under the “Made in China 2025” plan, an initiative that seeks to establish Chinese dominance in a range of industries.

US officials have argued for years that MIC-2025 relies on unfair trade practices to challenge American technological leadership, and have used it as justification for import tariffs and other restrictions on trade and investment with China.

The USCC, which reports to Congress, uses expert testimony to inform policies aimed at countering China’s ability to threaten US interests.

Richard Aboulafia, an aviation analyst and managing director of AeroDynamic Advisory, said the US should resist a protectionist stance and instead maintain international collaboration in aviation manufacturing.

03:44

China’s home-grown passenger jet C919 celebrates first anniversary of maiden flight

China’s home-grown passenger jet C919 celebrates first anniversary of maiden flight

Pointing out challenges that China has had in developing jet engines for commercial aircraft, he warned that shutting China out of supply chains could backfire by accelerating its push for self-sufficiency.