ICYMI: AIA Member Testifies Before U.S. Trade Representative on Importance of Supply Chain Resiliency

Arlington, Va. (May 3, 2024) - In case you missed it, CEO and owner of GSE Dynamics and Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) Executive Committee member Anne Shybunko-Moore testified on behalf of AIA before the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). At a hearing of over 60 entities, she emphasized the need for free market policies, a pro-business development and growth government, and working with allies and partners to provide the best and lowest cost materials to the warfighter while providing specific recommendations to execute these efforts.

In her testimony, Shybunko-Moore highlighted the interdependent nature of the defense and civil supply chains both with each other and with the global supply chain. "Our industrial base includes over 100,000 companies across the commercial and defense markets. Unlike other industries, the commercial aerospace and defense industries are deeply intertwined. Defense companies rely on the commercial market for access to minerals, materials, and products at scale, quality, and cost," Shybunko-Moore said.

She underscored the need for heightened interagency and industry-government collaboration, as well as the importance of global partnerships. "Our topline recommendation is simple: The U.S. government should implement a comprehensive and collaborative approach to supply chain resiliency, balancing investments in domestic sourcing with flexible regulations that support cooperation with allies and partners," Shybunko-Moore said. "This approach should consider the critical role of the global market."

She also encouraged the U.S. government to implement and expand policies such as the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act's Advanced Manufacturing Tax credit to foster industry growth. "Certain trade remedies, such as anti-dumping and Section 301 investigations, can protect domestic industry. But they must be appropriately scoped to avoid burdening businesses, especially smaller suppliers, with additional costs. We encourage you to continue engaging with industry to understand how tariffs might affect competitiveness and consumer pricing, among other impacts," Shybunko-Moore said.

A woman-owned small business, GSE Dynamics plays a critical role in the aerospace and defense (A&D) supply chain, providing testing for military components and assemblies.

You can read Shybunko-Moore's written testimony here.

You can read Shybunko-Moore's oral testimony here.