Mexico and Canada have launched coordinated public consultations this week aimed at preparing for the first joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in early 2026, officials said.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexico has begun a 60-day consultation period, extendable by 30 days, inviting input on how the trade pact has functioned. Canadian officials said their own consultation will run from September 20 to November 3, and will seek proposals that ensure USMCA remains aligned with Canada’s national economic priorities.
During a visit to Mexico City, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Sheinbaum emphasized their shared commitment to the USMCA and pledged closer cooperation in trade, agriculture, energy, and other areas amid rising US tariff threats. The two leaders said they hope the consultation process will reduce uncertainty for businesses, reinforce trilateral ties, and lay the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient trade framework.
Observers believe the joint review could influence changes in how goods move across the region, particularly through maritime routes, so as to partially bypass the traditional reliance on transit through the United States. The consultations also come at a time when firms and governments are asking for clearer regulatory stability, amid concerns about tariffs and evolving trade policy.
With the formal review period approaching, both countries have stressed the importance of transparency, stakeholder input, and alignment to long-term goals. Canada’s Minister Dominic LeBlanc referred to the process as an opportunity to ensure USMCA continues to serve businesses, workers, and broader economic growth. Mexico’s Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard echoed this, saying early engagement would help clarify future investment and trade relations.
