The United States is declining to renew the Canada‑U.S.-Mexico trade deal in its current form, even as Canada pushes to keep the agreement in place.
The three countries met virtually on Wednesday for the joint review required under the Canada‑U.S.-Mexico Agreement, also known as CUSMA.
Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc said he met with United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Mexico’s Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard for the review, which is laid out in the agreement.
LeBlanc said Canada reaffirmed its support for renewing the deal and highlighted its role in supporting jobs and providing stable access to the U.S. and Mexican markets.
“The CUSMA supports millions of jobs across North America and ensures Canadian businesses retain secure and predictable access to two of our most important trading partners,” he said.
He said the agreement remains active until 2036 and can be renewed at any time for another 16‑year period.
LeBlanc also said Canada wants continued discussions on trade issues, including U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, autos and lumber.
He described Canada as entering the talks from “a position of strength,” pointing to the country’s natural resources, workforce and investment climate.
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) said the U.S. is not agreeing to renew the deal.
USTR added that the U.S. will continue talks with both countries to address what it called shortcomings in the agreement and American trade deficits.
The agreement remains active while those issues are resolved or until it is terminated.
The United States will meet with Mexico the week of July 20 for a third round of bilateral negotiations related to the review.
LeBlanc said Canada expects more engagement with both countries in the coming weeks and months as discussions continue.
