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United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement

international agreement [2018]
Also known as: USMCA

Quick Summary

The United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) is an international trade pact that replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Signed in 2018 and effective from July 1, 2020, it aims to facilitate trade between the three North American countries.1

Key provisions of the USMCA include:
* Automotive Rules: At least 75 percent of a vehicle's components must be manufactured in North America to qualify for tariff-free status, an increase from NAFTA's 62.5 percent. Additionally, at least 30 percent of work on these vehicles must be performed by workers earning a minimum of $16 per hour.12
* Intellectual Property: The agreement strengthens protections for intellectual property rights.1
* Dispute Resolution: Formal rules are established for resolving disputes between investors and signatory countries.1

NAFTA, which USMCA replaced, had gradually eliminated most tariffs and trade barriers between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, creating a free-trade bloc. While NAFTA led to increased exports for Mexico, its overall economic growth impact was mixed, and it faced criticism regarding potential job losses in the U.S. and environmental concerns. The USMCA renegotiation sought to address some of these issues, particularly concerning labor and manufacturing standards.12

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