US Opens USMCA Talks With Mexico as Iran War Mutes 16-Year Renewal Fight
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jul 2
US Opens USMCA Talks With Mexico as Iran War Mutes 16-Year Renewal Fight
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jul 2
Summary
July 1 talks among the U.S., Mexico and Canada passed without the expected clash, with Washington starting formal negotiations with Mexico and staying in contact with Canadian officials.
Iran's war has consumed White House attention, easing pressure for a confrontation over USMCA even after the U.S. said it would not renew the pact for another 16 years.
That restraint also reflects a view inside the administration that Trump's tariff strategy has already reshaped North American trade, reducing the need for a more aggressive push.
Canada is still pressing substantive talks on U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos and lumber, with levies on some sectors ranging from 10% to 50%.
The non-renewal decision starts a 10-year countdown to USMCA expiry, but analysts expect annual reviews and quieter diplomacy to continue into the midterm election period.