The top U.S. trade negotiator under President Donald Trump has indicated that the government is contemplating dismantling the trilateral free trade accord with Canada and Mexico in favor of pursuing individual agreements. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer revealed on Wednesday that the Trump administration is exploring various options for the future of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), set to be revisited in 2026.
Greer, a key figure in trade talks and the imminent CUSMA review, is advocating for distinct bilateral pacts with the neighboring nations, diverging from the unified North American trade agreement established over the past three decades. Speaking at an event hosted by the Atlantic Council, Greer emphasized the marked differences in economic ties, labor conditions, trade dynamics, and legal frameworks between the U.S. and its northern and southern neighbors, warranting separate discussions with Canada and Mexico.
All three countries must declare their stance on extending, renegotiating, or terminating the agreement by July 1. Greer is mandated to submit a report to the U.S. Congress by January 2, outlining the administration’s intentions ahead of the deadline.
While Greer refrained from hinting at the White House’s leaning on CUSMA during the recent discussion, he acknowledged the possibility of exiting, revising, or renegotiating the agreement. Notably, he implied a potential division of the accord into bilateral deals with Canada and Mexico, citing ongoing separate dialogues with both countries.
Greer’s recent statements align with his earlier remarks to Politico, where he disclosed discussions with President Trump regarding separate negotiations. The considerations for separate deals follow a public consultation in Washington that underscored industry support for CUSMA and urged against abandonment.
Furthermore, Greer highlighted the need to enhance CUSMA’s rules of origin, particularly addressing concerns about non-compliance and exploitation by certain Canadian entities. Despite the focus on bilateral deals, Greer suggested that some aspects like rules of origin and trade policies alignment could still be part of a trilateral agreement involving all three countries.