Leaders Highlight USMCA Role in Jobs Exports and Supply Chains
Leaders from agriculture, manufacturing, and technology sectors gathered in Washington to highlight the importance of renewing the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) as the trade agreement approaches its formal review period.
The panel discussion was organized by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and the National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC). The event focused on how the agreement supports American jobs, strengthens supply chains across North America, and helps industries compete in global markets.
Speakers explained that the trilateral trade agreement plays an important role in maintaining strong economic ties between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They emphasized that the agreement provides certainty for businesses and farmers who depend on cross-border trade.
"I appreciate the National Foreign Trade Council and the National Corn Growers Association for hosting this important conversation," said Senator Young, the keynote speaker at the event. "Working to improve and preserve USMCA is critical for Indiana's agricultural and manufacturing communities who rely on the certainty and stability of market access in North America."
The discussion included leaders from agriculture and major industries, along with a United States senator. Participants noted that the agreement has helped improve market access and strengthen economic cooperation among the three countries.
The keynote speaker highlighted the importance of maintaining stable trade relationships for agricultural producers and manufacturers. He explained that many farming and manufacturing communities depend on reliable market access within North America.
"USMCA has been incredibly important for farmers like me," said Matt Frostic, a fifth-generation Michigan farmer and first vice president of the National Corn Growers Association.
"Mexico and Canada are two of our most important export markets and the certainty this agreement provides allows farmers to plan, invest and continue feeding and fueling the world. As the agreement enters its review period, it's important that policymakers focus on strengthening what works so American agriculture and industry can continue to grow," said Frostic.
Industry representatives from major manufacturing and technology companies also participated in the discussion. They noted that many companies depend on strong supply chains across North America to maintain production efficiency and competitiveness.
Trade experts emphasized that the United States exports more products to Canada and Mexico than too many other global markets combined. Maintaining these partnerships helps support economic growth, jobs, and investment across the country.
"We are pleased to partner with NCGA to underscore that USMCA is critical for American workers across every sector, from farmer to plant operator. U.S. production and manufacturing rely on the indispensable inputs and efficiencies from our geographic allies,” said NFTC senior director and USMCA lead, Brad Wood.
“They are also our top customers; America exports more to Canada and Mexico than its next 8 export markets combined. We must prioritize these partnerships, restore predictability, and renew a trilateral USMCA," said Wood.
The event is part of a broader effort by the Agricultural Coalition for USMCA to highlight the agreement’s importance. Supporters say renewing and strengthening the agreement will help protect North American trade and provide long-term stability for agriculture and industry.
Photo Credit: national-corn-growers-association