Trump says he would rather not have USMCA ahead of July review

Trump said in Paris on June 17 that he would rather not keep the USMCA, the North American trade pact linking the United States, Mexico and Canada, adding fresh uncertainty just ahead of a mandatory July 1 review.

He also said he may still sign an extension of the agreement. The remarks leave open questions about how strongly the United States will back keeping the deal in place when the three countries meet for the joint review.

Why it matters

The USMCA shapes tariff treatment and trade rules across North America, including for autos, parts, agriculture and other goods. Any failure to extend the pact could disrupt supply chains that depend on cross-border manufacturing.

Trump’s comments came as businesses and policymakers were already watching for signs of how the review would unfold. Axios reported that he said he would rather not keep the agreement, while The Guardian quoted him as saying he was not a big fan of the deal and would rather have it terminated.

What happens next

The July 1 review will determine whether the United States, Mexico and Canada extend the agreement for another 16 years. Officials from the three governments have not yet publicly clarified whether Trump’s comments reflect a formal U.S. negotiating position.

Market participants and companies tied to North American manufacturing are likely to watch for any formal statements from U.S., Mexican or Canadian trade officials before the review.