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Farmers and ag leaders say the upcoming USMCA review is critical to preserving stability in North American trade

A group of farmers and business leaders says the US-Canada-Mexico trade agreement provides the certainty that is needed for America’s farmers and ranchers. During a roundtable discussion at the site of the original signing of the North American Free Trade Agreement, the group said the upcoming review of the USMCA presents opportunities and challenges for America’s ag sector.

Venus Welch-White, director of government relations with CropLife America says if the review would end up in a complete renegotiation it would be a slippery-slope for agriculture. “The uncertainty is significant,” she says. 

She tells Brownfield there are some priorities. “Maintain the parts and pieces that have been working and we will continue to need as we advance,” she says. 

Tim Gauck, an Indiana farmer was at the event.  He says preserving the trilateral trade agreement is crucial. “We make long-range plans when we’re in agriculture,” he says.  “It takes time to pay this off and the stability to know what you’re facing is so important.

AUDIO: Tim Gauck, Indiana farmer

The USMCA faces a mandatory review in 2026 and is set to take place this summer. 

Farmers for Free Trade held a discussion that was focused on the importance of the agreement and North American Trade.  This is the first in a series of USMCA roundtables Farmers for Free Trade is hosting in congressional districts across the country.