USMCA Trade Pact To Start July 1

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer notified Congress that Canada and Mexico have taken measures necessary to comply with their commitments under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), and that the Agreement will enter into force on July 1, according to a statement from Lighthizer's office.

Following that notification to Congress, the United States became the third country to notify the other parties that it had completed its domestic procedures to implement the agreement — the final step necessary for the USMCA to enter into force.

The USMCA’s entry into force marks the beginning of a new chapter for North American trade by supporting more balanced, reciprocal trade, leading to freer markets, fairer trade and robust economic growth in North America. The agreement contains significant improvements and modernized approaches to rules of origin, agricultural market access, intellectual property, digital trade, financial services, labor and numerous other sectors. These enhancements will deliver more jobs, provide stronger labor protections and expand market access, creating new opportunities for American workers, farmers and ranchers.

“The crisis and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates that now, more than ever, the United States should strive to increase manufacturing capacity and investment in North America," says Lighthizer. "The USMCA’s entry into force is a landmark achievement in that effort. Under President Trump’s leadership, USTR will continue working to ensure a smooth implementation of the USMCA so that American workers and businesses can enjoy the benefits of the new agreement."