Retail trade bodies in the United States, Canada and Mexico have called for governments to preserve the North American trade framework as it approaches its scheduled 2026 review, warning that major changes could disrupt integrated supply chains and raise costs for businesses and consumers.
The National Retail Federation (NRF), the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) and Mexico’s ANTAD issued a joint statement during meetings in Washington, saying they “stand united in our support for preserving the USMCA/CUSMA.”
The groups framed the upcoming review as a key test for cross-border trade stability across one of the world’s most closely linked retail regions.
Call for stability
Retail organisations said the review should focus on maintaining the existing structure of the agreement rather than reopening core rules.
“Our primary message… is clear: Above all else, do no harm,” the statement said.
They added that the agreement should be treated as a “successful framework” that may require limited adjustments rather than structural changes. The groups also stressed that maintaining a trilateral agreement is essential for long-term certainty in trade policy.
Industry leaders argue that predictable trade rules are particularly important for retail businesses, which rely on long supply chains spanning manufacturing, transport and distribution across the three countries.
Supply chain integration
Retail groups highlighted the depth of economic integration between the three markets, where goods frequently cross borders multiple times before reaching consumers.
According to the statement, the “integrated nature of our retail supply chains has enriched the lives of citizens” in all three countries.
They warned that any disruption to cross-border flows could create logistical challenges and affect product availability. The organisations called for the continued “seamless movement of goods, investments, people and ideas” across North America.
For global retailers, the region remains a central hub for sourcing, manufacturing and distribution, particularly in sectors dependent on just-in-time logistics.
Tariffs and trade predictability
A key priority for the retail sector is the preservation of tariff-free trade for compliant goods under the agreement.
The groups said tariff-free movement of goods is “critical” to maintaining affordability and stability for consumers.
They also emphasised that “predictability in trade costs is the backbone of retail affordability,” warning that uncertainty in tariffs or rules could lead to higher operating costs and price pressures.
Retail leaders said they will continue engaging policymakers as the 2026 review approaches, urging governments to preserve a framework that supports competitiveness and supply chain resilience across the US–Canada–Mexico trade system.
