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Janice Charette Appointed Canada’s New Chief Trade Negotiator

2/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Janice Charette, the new chief trade negotiator with the United States, was appointed by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
She will advise Prime Minister Carney and Minister Dominic LeBlanc on the review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), due by July 1.
Carney praised Charette's four decades in public policy and diplomacy, noting her role in strengthening trade relations for Canadian and U.S. workers and industries.

History

Historical Context

The Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement (CUSFTA), enacted in 1989, significantly boosted trade between Canada and the U.S. by over 200%. This agreement paved the way for the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which further integrated the economies of Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. Janice Charette's recent appointment as chief trade negotiator underscores the enduring importance of these trade relations for economic stability.

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Story summary

Janice Charette, the new chief trade negotiator with the United States, was appointed by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
She will advise Prime Minister Carney and Minister Dominic LeBlanc on the review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), due by July 1.
Carney praised Charette's four decades in public policy and diplomacy, noting her role in strengthening trade relations for Canadian and U.S. workers and industries.

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