LeBlanc Affirms U.S. Will Likely Maintain CUSMA Trade Deal

The Canadian minister responsible for Canada-U.S. trade, Dominic LeBlanc, expressed confidence that the United States is unlikely to withdraw from the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). This assertion follows comments from U.S. President Donald Trump and some of his associates suggesting a potential reevaluation of the trade pact. In a year-end interview with The Canadian Press, LeBlanc emphasized that discussions with U.S. officials indicate a commitment to reviewing rather than abandoning the agreement.

LeBlanc, who represents the New Brunswick riding of Beausejour, noted that Mexican officials share his perspective, which suggests a collective understanding that the U.S. will engage in a comprehensive review of CUSMA, rather than opt for a complete dissolution. “It’s very encouraging,” he remarked, highlighting a year filled with negotiations aimed at easing tensions in U.S.-Canada trade relations.

Trade Talks Progress and Challenges

LeBlanc described the U.S. approach to the upcoming review of CUSMA as “calm,” citing the American trade ambassador, Jamieson Greer, who indicated that the U.S. would follow a traditional process for evaluating trade agreements. Despite this positive outlook, LeBlanc acknowledged the frustration felt by businesses and workers in various sectors due to perceived stagnation in trade negotiations. “We completely share that frustration,” he said, articulating the challenges faced by stakeholders.

The review of CUSMA is scheduled for February 2026. In the interim, LeBlanc is hopeful about reaching agreements to reduce tariffs affecting critical industries, including steel, aluminum, and lumber. He stated, “Our responsibility is to try to find the best solution… calmly, without emotion, without panic.”

Despite the optimism surrounding the review, the past year has seen significant challenges, including the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration. In early 2025, Trump enacted tariffs on Canada and other countries, prompting ongoing negotiations for exemptions. Throughout this period, LeBlanc has traveled frequently to Washington, often accompanied by key advisors, including Michael Sabia and Marc-Andre Blanchard, in efforts to resolve trade disputes.

LeBlanc expressed disappointment over the suspension of trade talks with the U.S. since October, which followed Trump’s reaction to an Ontario government advertisement highlighting the adverse effects of tariffs. “We were certainly disappointed,” he noted, reflecting on the missed opportunities for detailed discussions.

Strengthening Canada-Mexico Relations

In addition to U.S. trade relations, LeBlanc is focusing on strengthening economic ties with Mexico, Canada’s third-largest trading partner. Following a recent visit to Mexico, he observed an increase in energy and focus on the Canada-Mexico relationship compared to earlier in 2025. He remarked, “I think we, as a country, haven’t sufficiently appreciated the extraordinary potential with Mexico in terms of bilateral economic relations.”

LeBlanc’s upcoming bilateral trade mission to Mexico, expected to be the largest ever in terms of participants, aims to capitalize on this potential. He highlighted Mexico’s growing economy and increasing industrialization as key factors that align with Canada’s interests. The mission, set for next February, will build on Prime Minister Mark Carney‘s earlier engagement with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in September.

As Canada and Mexico seek to enhance their trade relationship, LeBlanc remains committed to navigating the complexities of CUSMA and fostering a robust economic partnership that benefits both nations.