On July 1, 2026, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, met with American and Mexican representatives to undertake the mandatory joint review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
During the meeting, Canada firmly reaffirmed its commitment to the agreement, emphasizing its vital role in supporting jobs and market access across North America. While Canada and Mexico formally recommended extending the pact, U.S. officials opted not to renew the agreement in its current form. Instead, the U.S. has triggered an annual review process to negotiate specific amendments.
What this means for trade continuity: CUSMA remains fully active and in force until its current expiry date in 2036. It can still be extended for an additional 16-year period at any point during these upcoming negotiations.
Trilateral discussions will continue closely in the coming weeks and months. For Canada, this includes pushing for critical, targeted dialogue with the United States regarding ongoing sectoral tariffs on steel, aluminum, automobiles, and lumber.
Key Operational Highlights
- Preferential Treatment Secure: CUSMA preferential tariff treatment remains fully available and unchanged for all qualifying goods crossing the border.
- Section 232 Tariffs: U.S. Section 232 tariffs remain in effect for certain goods originating in Canada and Mexico.
- Canadian Surtax Remissions: Retaliatory tariffs imposed by Canada remain active; however, surtax remission has been officially extended for qualifying goods until July 1, 2027 (Remission has been extended).
- Mexico Position: Mexico currently maintains no retaliatory tariffs.