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USTR Seeks Public Comments Ahead of USMCA Joint Review 2026


Trade Update • Sept. 18, 2025

Key Points:

  • USTR is requesting public input on the USMCA ahead of its Joint Review on July 1, 2026.
  • Written comments and hearing requests must be submitted by November 3, 2025.
  • A public hearing will be held on November 17, 2025, in Washington, DC.
  • Feedback is sought on USMCA’s operation, compliance, investment climate, and economic security efforts.
  • Post-hearing rebuttal comments are accepted for seven days after the hearing.
Flags of the United States, Mexico, and Canada side by side representing the USMCA

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is seeking public comments on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This input will help prepare for the Joint Review on July 1, 2026, when the three countries will decide whether to extend the Agreement for a new 16-year term. USTR invites comments on the Agreement’s implementation, compliance, and ways to improve trade, investment, and economic security between the three countries.

Request for Public Comments

USTR is inviting public comments on areas such as:

  • Any aspect of the USMCA’s operation or enforcement.
  • Issues related to compliance by any Party.
  • Recommendations for measures USTR should propose before the Joint Review.
  • Factors impacting the investment climate across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
  • How effectively the Agreement promotes investment that enhances U.S. competitiveness, productivity, and technology leadership.
  • Strategies to reinforce North American economic security and competitiveness, including cooperation on non-market trade policies.

The USTR is also asking for public input on the USMCA Competitiveness Committee, which was formed to promote a strong economic environment that encourages production in North America. According to USTR, the committee has focused on expanding trilateral cooperation on workforce development and maintaining trade flows during emergency situations.

Submission and Hearing Details

  • Written comments must be submitted by November 3, 2025, via USTR’s portal: https://comments.ustr.gov/s/.
  • Requests to appear at the public hearing on November 17, 2025, in Washington, DC, must include a summary of testimony and also be submitted by November 3.
  • Testimony at the hearing is limited to five minutes and should not include business confidential information.
  • Post-hearing rebuttal comments may be submitted within seven calendar days after the hearing.

Background

The USMCA, effective July 1, 2020, includes a clause that the Agreement will terminate 16 years after entry unless all parties agree to extend it for another 16 years. This decision will be made during a Joint Review meeting on July 1, 2026, where the three countries will assess how the Agreement is working and decide on any actions, including extension.

For additional information, contact:

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