MEXICO CITY — The Canadian government is initiating public consultations regarding the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) in preparation for a review scheduled for next year. Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc made the announcement on Friday during a visit to Mexico City, where he and Prime Minister Mark Carney concluded two days of discussions with Mexican officials.

The consultations will gather input from provinces, territories, industry representatives, and workers as Canada prepares for a formal review of CUSMA in 2026. LeBlanc stated, "You’ll see, over the coming weeks, activities and opportunities for Canadians, and for those that are affected by the recent turbulence in the trading relationship, to offer us views on how we should approach the review conversations with the United States and with Mexico."

Currently, an exemption for CUSMA-compliant goods has largely protected Canada’s trade from the tariff disputes initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump. However, certain sectoral duties remain in place, particularly affecting the steel, aluminum, automotive, and softwood lumber industries.

U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra noted earlier this week that Trump had aimed for a "much bigger deal" with Canada that would extend beyond the current trade agreement. LeBlanc indicated that while Canada would consider a larger deal if it served Canadian interests, his immediate focus is on resolving the existing sectoral tariffs. He anticipates returning to Washington for further trade discussions in the coming weeks.

In addition to the CUSMA consultations, Carney announced a new economic and security agreement with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. This agreement is described as a comprehensive strategic partnership, which includes plans for infrastructure development, such as ports, railways, and energy corridors, while also addressing crime and environmental protection.

Both leaders emphasized that this new agreement will complement CUSMA. Carney expressed confidence that the individual reviews and joint discussions on CUSMA will strengthen both countries' economies, stating, "We are stronger together."

On Friday, Carney was scheduled to visit the Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Ferrovalle train yard, marking his only planned event before returning to Ottawa.