Trump dismisses CUSMA at Ford factory
President Trump visited Ford’s Dearborn plant Tuesday. He called CUSMA “irrelevant” with no U.S. advantage. “Canada would love it. They need it,” Trump told workers.
The trade pact faces mandatory 2026 review. Countries must decide renewal or replacement. Trump pushes American manufacturing exclusively.
Detroit Three automakers rely heavily on Canada-Mexico parts. General Motors president Mark Reuss called North American integration a strength. Ford CEO Jim Farley sees three countries as one system.
Automakers defend integrated supply chains
CUSMA delivers tens of billions in annual savings, automakers say. Regional rules help U.S. plants compete globally. Trump claims CUSMA is ‘irrelevant,’ but says Canada ‘wants it’ ignores industry reality.
Stellantis warned 15% tariffs hurt American workers. Asian imports gain under protectionist rules. North American content rules protect U.S. jobs.
GM, Ford and Stellantis build hundreds of thousands of vehicles across borders. Complex supply chains span all three countries efficiently.
Trade minister prepares for review talks
Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc starts CUSMA discussions soon. He meets Mexican and U.S. counterparts for joint review. Canadian stakeholders provide input this week.
LeBlanc prioritizes workers and businesses in talks. Trump claims CUSMA is ‘irrelevant,’ but says Canada ‘wants it’ sets tense negotiation tone early.
Ontario trade rep David Paterson calls rhetoric familiar. Presidents start from dominance positions. Canada expects tough bargaining ahead.
Carney diversifies trade partnerships
Prime Minister Mark Carney tours Asia and Europe this week. He meets China’s Xi Jinping first. Qatar and Switzerland World Economic Forum follow.
Former Liberal strategist Amanda Alvaro sees diversification wisdom. Trump’s unpredictability demands broader markets. CUSMA reliance carries risks.
The trade pact replaced NAFTA during Trump’s first term. He previously called CUSMA transitional. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer eyes bilateral deals.
2026 review shapes North American trade
CUSMA’s six-year review determines future terms. Countries negotiate jointly or separately. Trump’s manufacturing push challenges integrated auto sector.
Canadian officials prepare contingency plans quietly. Automakers lobby for continuity desperately. Trump claims CUSMA is ‘irrelevant,’ but says Canada ‘wants it’ fuels uncertainty.
Surrey businesses watch closely. Local manufacturers serve U.S. supply chains. Trade disruptions threaten jobs and growth.
President Trump’s Michigan comments signal aggressive posture. Canada balances defence of current deal with diversification. The 2026 showdown approaches rapidly.
