Overview
- During a visit to Ford’s Dearborn complex, President Donald Trump said the USMCA offers “no real advantage,” adding the United States does not need vehicles made in Mexico or Canada and wants production on U.S. soil.
- A new U.S. congressional analysis says the scope and process of the 2026 joint review are not clear, including what issues can be addressed and what role Congress might play.
- USTR briefings to lawmakers highlighted possible review topics such as Canadian dairy and alcohol distribution, U.S.–Canada digital services, and with Mexico agriculture, labor and energy, plus potential adjustments to rules of origin.
- Under the treaty’s timetable, the formal joint review begins July 1, 2026; a unanimous decision would extend the pact 16 years, otherwise annual reviews follow or a party may withdraw with six months’ notice.
- Analysts expect Washington to lean on tariffs and bilateral leverage rather than a fresh trilateral bargain, as Mexico voices confidence after leader‑level outreach and Canadian media report Prime Minister Mark Carney plans a China visit to meet Xi.