North American leaders take stage together for the first time

December 5, 2025

The leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada gathered at Washington DC's Kennedy Centre for the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony, presenting a united front despite ongoing trade disagreements. This event provided President Trump his first opportunity to meet with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, while also allowing discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney about the future of their shared trade agreement. The USMCA free trade pact faces a mandatory review in summer 2026, with Trump suggesting the US might pursue separate bilateral deals instead of maintaining the trilateral arrangement.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump (United States)
President Claudia Sheinbaum (Mexico)
Prime Minister Mark Carney (Canada)
Canadian businesses currently protected from US tariffs by USMCA
American businesses that access Canadian and Mexican markets
Agriculture, business, and policy groups in the US
Industries affected by steel, aluminum, and automobile tariffs

What action is being taken

Trade negotiations between the US, Canada, and Mexico are continuing
The Trump administration is considering whether to divide USMCA into two bilateral agreements or let it expire
The three leaders are working together on trade issues through their teams
A mandatory review of the USMCA agreement is ongoing and must be completed by summer 2026

Why it matters

The USMCA agreement governs trade relationships between the three largest economies in North America, affecting businesses and workers across all three nations. The potential dissolution or restructuring of this agreement could significantly impact cross-border commerce, supply chains, and economic stability in the region. Canadian businesses have particularly relied on USMCA protections to shield them from the majority of US-imposed tariffs, making the agreement's future critical to their economic security.

What's next

The mandatory USMCA review must be completed by summer 2026
The three countries' teams will continue working together on trade issues
The US will decide whether to let USMCA expire, maintain it, or negotiate separate bilateral deals with Mexico and Canada

Read full article from source: BBC