U.S., Canada, Mexico Begin Trade Pact Negotiations

Why it matters locally: Potential changes to the North American trade pact could influence Montana's agricultural exports, particularly beef and wheat, which rely on access to Canadian and Mexican markets, and could also affect the cost of imported goods.

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WASHINGTON – Representatives from the United States, Canada, and Mexico have started negotiations to renew the North American trade pact. Officials from the three countries began talks regarding the agreement that governs a significant portion of their national economies. The existing trade framework facilitates the movement of goods and services across the continent. For example, tourists from Chattanooga travel to beach resorts in Cancun. Canadian companies supply auto parts to factories in the American Midwest. US companies also provide auto parts to Canadian factories. Bars in Seattle serve Mexican tequila and mezcal to customers. These ongoing discussions mark an effort to update financial and commercial accords between the three North American partners.