U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Monday that Bombardier, a Montreal-based aircraft manufacturer, must begin production in the United States to continue selling its products in the country. Trump emphasized the necessity for Bombardier to establish manufacturing facilities in the U.S. if they wish to access the American market, stating that their current products are inadequate. This statement was made through a post on Truth Social, signaling Trump’s ongoing efforts to push both foreign and domestic companies to increase manufacturing operations within the U.S.

In response to Trump’s remarks, Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette expressed her support for Bombardier, describing the company as a symbol of Quebec’s economic strength and a vital player in the aerospace industry. Fréchette emphasized the pride that Bombardier brings to Quebec, highlighting the contributions of thousands of Quebec workers who showcase the region’s expertise globally. She also reached out to Bombardier’s CEO, Eric Martel, offering full support to the company.

Despite Trump’s announcement, Bombardier already conducts significant operations in the U.S., generating tens of thousands of jobs in the country. The company affirmed its commitment to its American partnerships and employees, outlining plans for further investment and expansion across different regions in the U.S. Aerospace analyst Richard Aboulafia expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of Trump’s directive, noting that most Bombardier jets utilize U.S.-made engines from companies like Honeywell Aerospace and GE Aerospace.

Bombardier’s presence in the U.S. includes a workforce of 3,500 employees and 2,800 suppliers, along with various manufacturing facilities and service centers. The company is actively expanding its U.S. operations, such as establishing additional service centers and producing wings for its Global 8000 jet in Texas. Additionally, Bombardier has a defense division with a factory in Kansas, dedicated to preparing aircraft for specialized missions. Approximately half of Bombardier’s fleet, consisting of 5,100 aircraft, is located in the U.S.

While Trump’s focus on Bombardier continues, industry experts anticipate that other Canadian companies could also become targets in the ongoing trade dispute. John Gradek, a supply chain networks and aviation management lecturer at McGill University, expressed concerns over the potential implications of Trump’s actions on U.S. citizens and the workforce of Canadian companies operating in the country. Gradek warned that Bombardier might be just the beginning of a series of targets in Trump’s trade strategy, urging Canada to consider possible retaliatory measures.