The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has kicked off a review of the

trade pact

between Canada, the United States and Mexico by launching a 45-day public consultation.

The consultation, including written views on the operation of the

Canada-U.S.-Mexico Trade Agreement

(CUSMA), as well as a public hearing on Nov. 17, will take place ahead of the joint review by the three partner countries beginning July 1, 2026.

“This consultation process is required by U.S. law,” the trade office said in a statement late Tuesday.

The focus of public comments can be any aspect of the operation or implementation of the CUSMA, including any issues with compliance. There can also be recommendations for specific actions that the trade office should propose ahead of the joint review next year.

The public is also being invited to point to factors affecting the investment climate in North America and each participating country, as well as the effectiveness of CUSMA in promoting investment that strengthens U.S. competitiveness, productivity, and technological leadership.

In addition, the trade office is seeking views on strategies for strengthening North American economic security and competitiveness.

Candace Laing, chief executive of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, said a successful review of CUSMA is the only way to restore certainty and confidence after a months-long trade war kicked off by the United States.

“The launch of this U.S. consultation on the CUSMA by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is an important milestone,” she said, adding that the business association will draw on views from businesses, sectoral association and its national network of chambers of commerce to make recommendations to the U.S. trade office.

“CUSMA is too important to our prosperity

—

and to North America’s global competitiveness

—

to allow it to unravel. We cannot afford to find ourselves back in this same position next year.”

Laing described a “corrosive” lack of predictability in the trade policy of the U.S. administration, which is undermining investment, planning, and long-term growth.

“Our message for the Trump administration is clear: higher costs and new barriers are not a winning strategy for businesses on either side of the border,” she said. “After decades of success under free trade enabled by CUSMA, our economies are deeply integrated. Manufacturers, supply chains, and service providers in both countries depend on this partnership to remain competitive and prosperous.”

The trade war has included

steep tariffs

on Canadian steel, aluminum and autos, but largely spared goods outside targeted sectors that are compliant with CUSMA.

Some observers have nevertheless expressed concern that the administration of U.S. President

Donald Trump

could move to substantially alter the agreement when it comes up for the scheduled review next year. Others, including Ontario Premier

Doug Ford

, have warned that Trump could seek to open the trade pact for renegotiation before the established review period opens next year.

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• Email: bshecter@nationalpost.com