The United States has decided to address imports of commercial aircraft, jet engines, and their components through trade negotiations rather than tariffs. This decision stems from a Section 232 investigation into the industry.

In a proclamation signed on Thursday, President Donald Trump directed the Secretary of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative to conduct or continue negotiations with trading partners to adjust import levels of commercial aircraft, jet engines, and components. The proclamation link is available on the White House website.

The President stated that this action is necessary based on the findings of a Section 232 investigation initiated by the Secretary of Commerce last year. The proclamation states that the investigation showed that the entry of such goods into the U.S. market threatens national security and the economy. However, Trump chose to follow the investigation's recommendation to respond through diplomatic means rather than economic pressure.

Trump wrote: "The Secretary also recommended that tariffs not be imposed under Section 232 at this time."

Cabinet officials will report to the President on the progress of negotiations within six months. Although tariffs are not currently being considered, the President stated that he "may consider other remedies in the future."

Trump's decision to delay tariffs is not entirely without precedent, although many Section 232 investigations have ultimately resulted in tariffs, such as those on steel and aluminum. Similar to Thursday's proclamation, the President in January directed cabinet officials to hold discussions with trading partners on imports of critical minerals and certain semiconductors, rather than imposing tariffs directly.