Securing USMCA Protects U.S. Agriculture From More Trade Uncertainties

Lyndsey Smith with Real Ag Radio joined RFD-TV to share a Canadian perspective on the discussions.

While China is top of mind, one agriculture trade group is putting the focus on North America. At a recent stop in dairy country, leaders at Farmers for Free Trade told the crowd that keeping the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) intact is a must.

Agricultural leaders from Canada, the United States, and Mexico recently wrapped up the Tri-National Agriculture Accord — the final meeting before the scheduled 2026 review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

USMCA has come under fire lately, with President Donald Trump suggesting it may need a re-work. During a stop on the “Motorcade for Trade” tour, leaders from “Farmers for Free Trade” say that the agreement must stay intact, warning that they’re some of the most important trade partners.

They say farmers cannot afford another level of uncertainty right now. The group called for an end to trade disputes, saying 95 percent of U.S. commodity purchases come from international markets, including Canada and Mexico.

Lyndsey Smith with Real Ag Radio joined RFD-TV to share a Canadian perspective on the discussions.

Smith discussed what Canada’s agriculture minister and provincial counterparts brought to the table, outlining key issues addressed during the meeting and the priorities they emphasized heading into the USMCA review. She also explained how the United States fit into the discussions, noting the collaborative yet complex trade relationships among the three nations.

Smith’s insight highlighted how Canada and Mexico held their own bilateral meetings before the accord, setting the stage for what could be significant trade conversations in 2026.

Related Stories
Strong plant output and rising exports contrast with softer domestic blending demand, suggesting margins are poised for volatility.
Weaker U.S. dairy prices come as value-added exports expand and ingredient inventories tighten, creating mixed market signals for producers.
WTO gauges point to agricultural raw materials trade growing more slowly than overall goods, reinforcing the need to manage export risk and monitor policy shifts closely.
Kip Eideberg with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers details its campaign spotlighting the people who build equipment vital to farming and food manufacturing.
Buzzard discusses her upcoming appearance on the Dirt Diaries podcast with host Kirbe Schnoor and the importance of sharing authentic stories about agriculture.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
Dr. Seth Meyer Concludes Service; Dr. Justin Benavidez Appointed USDA Chief Economist
USDA data indicates that 13.7 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate since 2014, even as most households remained food secure.
Weather, Tight Supplies, and Planning Shape Farm Decisions