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
Wyoming cowboy and Dusty Vaquero Days founder J.B. Zielke joins us to preview his upcoming event in Gillette and to highlight the festival’s celebration of cowboy culture through music and community events.
Members from across the state will gather for competitions, workshops and leadership opportunities.
The new county maps show farm program payments are widespread, but payment design still produces very different outcomes across regions and crops. AgriSompo’s Brooks York joins us to discuss the role of crop insurance in supporting mental health.
Nebraska cattle rancher Joe Van Newkirk joins us to discuss wildfire recovery in Nebraska’s Sandhills athe challenges ranchers face restoring basic infrastructure after the fire.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses Canada’s new soil health strategy, its implications for producers, and its potential to support sustainable agriculture in Canada compared to USDA funding for conservation.
National Association of Wheat Growers President Jamie Kress discusses how rising fertilizer prices pressure wheat producers and the Administration’s consideration of lowering duties on Moroccan phosphate.
Premieres on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 7:30 PM ET
EPA estimates the rule could generate more than $10 billion for rural economies and support over 100,000 jobs across agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
White House hosts “Celebration of Agriculture” as Trump administration signals new farmer support, including potential tax breaks and upcoming renewable fuel policy updates.
Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Michael Kelsey joined us to discuss wildfire impacts across the Southern Plains, the importance of community support, and the path forward for affected producers.