Boeing resumes deliveries of the 737 MAX 8 amid eased US-China trade tensions

Che Shanglun, Chair of Xiamen Airlines, noted the longstanding partnership with Boeing: "In our 34-year history of operations, Xiamen Airlines has steadily grown, doubling our fleet size over the past five years and achieving profits for 31 years in a row. Throughout that time, Boeing has been a valued partner in our growth and expansion by providing safe and reliable airplanes."

The demand for new aircraft is expected to grow significantly in China over the next two decades. By 2038, Boeing projects that China will need approximately 7,690 new aircraft at an estimated cost of $1.2 trillion.

The first delivery from Boeing's Zhoushan plant was initially planned for December 2018 but was delayed due to various factors including trade tensions. As part of its broader operations within China, Boeing's activities contributed over $1 billion to the Chinese economy as reported for the year 2018.

Recent reports have highlighted ongoing challenges faced by Boeing due to bilateral tariffs introduced during President Donald Trump's administration. These tariffs affected scheduled deliveries with some aircraft being rerouted back to the United States.

As it stands now, there are still undelivered orders from various Chinese airlines totaling 137 across several carriers including Air China, China Southern Airlines, Donghai Airlines, Hainan Airlines among others.