CAFTA delegation urges strong commitment to North American trade
Canada’s leading agri-food exporters are in Washington this week to highlight the importance of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and its role in protecting jobs, growth, and food security across North America.
The visit is organized by the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA) and includes representatives from 12 national industry groups linked to grains, livestock, food processing, and life sciences. Together, these sectors represent more than 90% of the Canadian agri-food industry that relies on trade.
CAFTA leaders are meeting with U.S. lawmakers to reinforce how the USMCA helps keep supply chains open, efficient, and competitive. They are emphasizing that the agreement allows producers and consumers in all three countries to benefit from stable, tariff-free trade. “CAFTA is in Washington to highlight what the USMCA makes possible,” said Greg Northey, Chair of CAFTA. “It’s the backbone of our shared economic security, keeping cross-border supply chains efficient, competitive, and delivering affordable, high-quality food to consumers on both sides of the border.”
The United States remains Canada’s most important trading partner, with Canadians purchasing more than US $722 worth of American farm products per person each year.
As the first joint USMCA review approaches in 2026, CAFTA is encouraging all three governments to confirm the full 16-year term of the agreement. They believe this renewal will offer stronger predictability for farmers, processors, and consumers who depend on consistent market access.
“Certainty is the currency of trade,” said Michael Harvey, Executive Director of CAFTA. “Extending the USMCA will send the strongest possible signal to markets that North America remains open, reliable, and ready to compete.”
The delegation also stressed the importance of managing trade, border, and security matters through a unified North American framework. “Integrated supply chains ensure the economic competitiveness of both our countries,” said Harvey. “This review is the moment to double down on what works: predictability, partnership, and a shared commitment that keeps our food systems resilient.”
Photo Credit: CAFTA_Logo