U.S. President Donald Trump declined to guarantee the renewal of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, known as the USMCA, saying his administration is still weighing whether the trade pact should continue under its current terms.
Speaking at the Oval Office, Trump said he was unsure whether he would support extending the agreement, arguing that the United States is in a stronger trade position. His comments come as the three countries prepare for the pact’s scheduled review amid ongoing tariff tensions and broader trade negotiations.
Trump said the United States should seek better terms in its trade relationships with Mexico and Canada. He also renewed criticism of NAFTA, the agreement that preceded the USMCA, saying it lacked sufficient exit mechanisms.
The USMCA took effect in 2020, replacing NAFTA, and includes a mandatory joint review six years after implementation. If all three countries agree to renew it before July 1, the agreement would automatically be extended for another 16 years. Without consensus, the pact would enter a period of annual reviews that could continue for up to a decade.
Mexico and Canada have signaled support for preserving the agreement, while Washington has indicated it may seek significant changes, particularly in the automotive sector and in access to Canada’s dairy market.
Formal talks between the United States and Mexico have already begun. Discussions with Canada appear to be at an earlier stage, though Canadian officials have described recent meetings with U.S. trade representatives as positive. Washington’s final position, however, remains unresolved.
Source: El Financiero
