Full Breakdown
U.S. Agriculture Industry Advocates for CUSMA Amid Uncertainty
2/13/2026, 5:08:49 AM
Overview of the Trade Agreement's Importance
The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), known as USMCA in the U.S., is facing scrutiny as its renewal deadline approaches in July 2026. The U.S. agriculture industry, represented by a coalition of 40 organizations, is actively campaigning to emphasize the economic benefits of CUSMA to the Trump administration. This coalition includes farmers, ranchers, food producers, and processors who argue that the agreement has significantly boosted jobs and revenue in rural America.
Economic Contributions of CUSMA
Recent analyses from the coalition highlight that Canada and Mexico account for approximately one-third of the value of U.S. agricultural exports. In 2024, agricultural and seafood exports to these countries generated $149 billion in domestic economic activity, including $36 billion in wages. Since CUSMA's implementation in 2020, the value of U.S. agricultural exports to Canada and Mexico has surged by 47%, outpacing the 18% growth rate of exports to the rest of the world. Alexis Taylor, chief global policy officer of the International Fresh Produce Association, noted that the benefits extend beyond farmers, positively impacting local grocery stores, banks, and small businesses in rural communities.
Coalition's Campaign and Messaging
The Agricultural Coalition for USMCA is utilizing targeted advertising, including digital ads on platforms like Trump's Truth Social, to ensure that policymakers understand the agreement's advantages. Nancy Martinez, a spokesperson for the coalition, stated, "U.S. agriculture has a great and positive story to tell on the benefits of USMCA," emphasizing the need for a balanced narrative amid negative perceptions surrounding the deal.
Criticism and Calls for Improvement
While the coalition supports CUSMA, some sectors, particularly the U.S. dairy industry, are advocating for specific changes. Shawna Morris, executive vice president of trade policy for the National Milk Producers Federation, acknowledged the agreement's strengths but called for "targeted enhancements" to maximize its potential. Dave Salmonsen from the American Farm Bureau Federation echoed this sentiment, noting that while the agreement has been beneficial, there are areas that require updates, particularly regarding dairy access to Canada.
Official Statements and Responses
The Senate Finance Committee recently held a hearing to discuss the significance of CUSMA, where various stakeholders highlighted its positive impact on North American agriculture and business. Salmonsen remarked on the historical context of trade relations, stating, "We've had such strong growth... Now we're over $60 billion" in agricultural exports to Canada and Mexico combined.
What's Next for CUSMA?
As the review process for CUSMA begins, the coalition and other industry leaders are urging the Trump administration to maintain the agreement. The outcome of this review will determine whether the deal continues for another 16 years or undergoes significant changes. The agricultural sector's unified stance reflects its recognition of CUSMA as a crucial framework for future trade relations in North America.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Collectively, our point is to make sure that our message resonates with the president.” — Nancy Martinez, Director, National Corn Growers Association
- “The economic benefits of USMCA drive investment, strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. producers in global markets, and keep family farms, small businesses and employers in operation,” — Coalition Economic Analysis
- “USMCA is an extremely strong agreement, but it's not perfect,” — Shawna Morris, Executive Vice President, National Milk Producers Federation
- “The best trade is to trade with the neighbors.” — Dave Salmonsen, Senior Director, American Farm Bureau Federation
