The consultations will help ensure that Canada’s position in the 2026 discussions is aligned with domestic economic interests and the needs of Canadian businesses.
As part of its preparations for the upcoming CUSMA review, Canada has initiated public consultations on the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade agreement.
These public consultations will directly inform Canada’s work ahead of next year’s joint review between the three trading partners and ensure the interests of Canadians are considered during the discussions.
Through these consultations, Canadians have a chance to share their opinions on key areas of the agreement, including what is working well and potential areas for improvement.
Submissions will be accepted between September 20, 2025, and November 3, 2025.
The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), which came into effect on July 1, 2020, sets rules for preferential tariffs and requires strict compliance with origin and record-keeping provisions.
It replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which had been in force since January 1, 1994.
CUSMA establishes high standards in labour, environment, automotive trade, dispute resolution, culture, energy, agriculture and agri-food, and includes provisions on gender and Indigenous Peoples’ rights.
The agreement mandates a six-year review cycle, with the first joint review scheduled for July 1, 2026.
During the review, each party must confirm in writing whether to renew the agreement for another 16-year period after it expires.
If a party does not confirm, annual reviews continue until renewal is agreed or the agreement reaches its current 2036 term end.
CUSMA secures preferential access for Canada to the U.S. and Mexican markets, which is essential to supporting Canadian businesses, workers, and communities across the country.
The agreement connects 506 million North American consumers and represents a combined GDP of about $42 trillion.
In 2024, trade among the three CUSMA partners totalled $2.01 trillion, a 4% increase compared with 2023.
During the same year, goods and services valued at over $3.6 billion crossed the Canada–U.S. border each day.
The consultations are open to all Canadians, and the government has specifically encouraged participation from businesses of all sizes, Indigenous peoples, labour organizations, civil society, academics, and underrepresented groups.
This aims to gather a broad range of experiences and perspectives on how CUSMA impacts various sectors of the economy.
Participants are encouraged to provide comments on any part of the agreement, including tariff provisions, rules of origin, environmental standards, and labour commitments.
If you wish to participate, you can send your comments by email to CUSMA-Consultations-ACEUM@international.gc.ca or by mail to Global Affairs Canada, Trade Negotiations – North America, in Ottawa.
Details of the consultation, including instructions on how to participate, are also published in the Canada Gazette notice.
Submissions must be received by November 3, 2025, to be considered as part of the CUSMA review process.
The government will compile and analyze all feedback received to guide Canada’s priorities during the 2026 joint review.
To learn more about the CUSMA review and discuss your comments or questions, please reach out to one of our trade professionals.