Beijing: China has reportedly instructed its airlines to suspend deliveries of aircraft from U.S. aerospace giant Boeing, according to Bloomberg News, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between Beijing and Washington.

Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report states that Chinese authorities have also directed carriers to halt purchases of aircraft-related equipment and parts from American companies. This development comes as the U.S.-China trade war deepens, with both nations levying steep tariffs on each other's imports.

Since President Donald Trump took office, the two largest global economies have engaged in a tit-for-tat tariff battle, with the U.S. imposing tariffs up to 145% on Chinese imports. In response, Beijing has enacted 125% tariffs on U.S. goods, labeling Washington’s actions as unjustified economic “bullying.”

While Boeing and China’s foreign ministry have yet to comment, the suspension of aircraft deliveries could have widespread implications for the global aviation sector, especially given China's status as one of Boeing's largest international markets.

Bloomberg also reported that the Chinese government is considering support measures for domestic airlines that lease Boeing aircraft and may face cost hikes due to increased import tariffs.

Although President Trump paused further tariff hikes last week, the gesture did not include any direct relief for China, keeping bilateral tensions high. Meanwhile, U.S. trade officials announced tariff exemptions for some high-end tech goods like smartphones and semiconductors, underscoring the selective approach in the ongoing trade maneuvering.

This latest move by China suggests a growing willingness to extend the trade battle into strategic sectors such as aerospace, a key pillar of U.S. manufacturing and exports.