USMCA expected to take effect from 1 July
US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has notified Congress that the new US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA) will take effect on 1 July – a month later than expected.In a statement, Lighthizer said both Mexico and Canada had taken measures necessary to comply with their commitments under USMCA, which replaces the 26-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
According to Reuters, some industries across the three nations have petitioned for a delayed implementation due to the difficulties they are experiencing from the coronavirus pandemic.
Lighthizer said his office would work to ensure a smooth implementation of the new trade rules.
"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," Lighthizer said in a statement. "The USMCA's entry into force is a landmark achievement in that effort.
The accord includes tougher rules on labour and automotive content but leaves $1.2 trillion in annual US-Mexico-Canada trade flows largely unchanged.
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