North America on Notice: US Kicks Off Crucial CUSMA Trade Deal Review

The economic landscape of North America is once again under the microscope as the United States officially fires the starting gun on its mandated six-year review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). This pivotal process, known as USMCA in the U.S. and T-MEC in Mexico, is more than just a routine check-up; it's a deep dive into the foundational trade pact that underpins much of the continent's economic activity.

The U.S.

Trade Representative (USTR) has taken the first step, initiating a comprehensive public consultation period. American businesses, workers, and citizens are now invited to share their insights, concerns, and successes regarding the agreement's operation. This broad call for input covers a wide array of critical areas, including labor standards, environmental protections, intellectual property rights, and the ever-evolving realm of digital trade.

This review isn't a surprise; it's a built-in mechanism of the agreement itself, designed to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

The USTR's office is seeking detailed comments on how well CUSMA's various chapters are functioning, how its dispute settlement mechanisms have performed, and crucially, how it has impacted economic development, jobs, and overall competitiveness across the three nations.

While trade experts widely anticipate that the agreement will ultimately remain in force, the year-long review, slated to conclude by July 1, 2026, is expected to bring simmering trade irritants to a rolling boil.

The spotlight will inevitably fall on long-standing disputes, particularly between the U.S. and Canada, concerning sectors like dairy, softwood lumber, and emerging critical minerals supply chains. These areas represent significant friction points that could dominate discussions and shape potential future adjustments.

Canada and Mexico are not sitting idly by.

Both nations are actively gearing up for this comprehensive assessment, with Canada already engaging its own stakeholders to gather perspectives and prepare its arguments. This coordinated approach underscores the regional importance of CUSMA and the collective desire to navigate the review process effectively.

Ultimately, this CUSMA review represents a critical juncture for North American trade.

It’s an opportunity to strengthen economic ties, address areas of contention, and ensure that the agreement continues to serve as a robust framework for prosperity and stability across Canada, the United States, and Mexico for years to come.