Manufacturers Praise WTO Ruling in Airbus Subsidies Case

06/30/10 -  WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) President John Engler issued a statement today following the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) final ruling in the Airbus subsidies case:

"America’s manufacturers are pleased with the WTO panel’s ruling today that Airbus received illegal subsidies that put the U.S. aerospace industry at a disadvantage. This landmark ruling is a victory for the U.S. aerospace industry as well as other industrial sectors around the globe seeking fair and open competition free of government intervention.

This ruling sends a clear message that manufacturers must abide by world trade rules.

However, we are concerned that despite this decision, European governments are prepared to provide massive subsidies for companies seeking to launch new aircraft -- a clear violation of the world trade system. It is important that the European Union adhere to this ruling and global trade rules to ensure a level playing field and fair competition."