Overview
- At a Ford facility in Michigan, President Donald Trump said the USMCA has “no real advantage” for the United States and asserted the country does not need cars made in Mexico or Canada.
- Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum declined a direct debate and said she is convinced cross‑border commerce will continue, emphasizing deep integration and noting U.S. companies are the pact’s strongest defenders.
- The agreement faces its mandated joint review in 2026, which could extend the deal, prompt renegotiation, or allow it to lapse depending on trilateral decisions.
- Economists say Trump’s remarks raise bargaining pressure ahead of the review; experts add the United States can withdraw with six months’ notice, though business and political costs would be significant.
- Reporting also highlights Canada’s outreach to China, with Prime Minister Mark Carney set to visit Beijing to meet President Xi Jinping in response to U.S. trade pressure.