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

Why it matters locally: While Alaska's primary industries aren't directly dependent on the same supply chains as the lower 48, changes to North American trade policies can influence the cost and availability of goods imported into the state and export opportunities for Alaskan products.

---

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.