Canada takes first initiative to formalise North American Trade Deal with US & Mexico

On May 27, Canada took the first step towards formalising a new North American Trade Agreement. Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland presented what is known as a “ways and means motion” to the House of Commons, which leads the way to the formal presentation of a bill. 

However, the USMCA deal, which would replace the 25-year old North American Trade Agreement, is yet to be approved by legislatures of the three participating countries – Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The administration of US President negotiated the deal but some US Democratic lawmakers demanded stronger enforcement provisions for USMCA's new labour and environmental standards.

The US on May 17 struck deals to exempt aluminium and steel imports tariffs from Canada and Mexico, removing a major obstacle to legislative approval. US Vice President Mike Pence is due to meet Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa on Thursday, May 30.

Freeland reported she spoke with the US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer over the weekend and with Mexico's government less than two weeks ago about ratification process.

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