WASHINGTON — U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said Wednesday he is working to reach interim trade arrangements with Canada and Mexico before the end of the year, providing businesses greater certainty while the formal review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) continues. Greer outlined the administration’s objective during remarks on the ongoing negotiations, signaling an effort to avoid disruptions to North America’s deeply integrated supply chains.

The USMCA governs more than $1.8 trillion in annual trade among the three countries and serves as the foundation for cross-border commerce involving automobiles, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, electronics and consumer goods. Businesses have been seeking greater clarity as negotiations over the agreement’s future continue.

Greer said interim arrangements could help companies make investment and production decisions without waiting for the completion of broader negotiations. Manufacturers, retailers and logistics firms have warned that prolonged uncertainty surrounding tariffs and trade rules complicates long-term planning and increases operating costs.

The automotive industry remains among the sectors most affected. Vehicles assembled in North America often cross the U.S., Canadian and Mexican borders multiple times before reaching dealerships, making stable trade rules essential for production schedules and supply-chain efficiency.

Agricultural producers are also closely watching the talks. The United States exports billions of dollars in corn, soybeans, dairy products, meat and other agricultural goods to Canada and Mexico each year, while American consumers rely heavily on imported produce and manufactured food products from both neighboring countries.

For consumers, the outcome could influence the prices of automobiles, groceries, appliances, construction materials and other imported goods. Business groups have argued that reducing uncertainty can help stabilize supply chains and limit additional costs that may eventually be passed on to customers.

Financial markets viewed Greer’s comments as a sign that the administration is seeking continuity rather than disruption in North American trade while preserving flexibility for future negotiations. Companies with operations spanning all three countries are expected to monitor every stage of the review process closely.

Additional meetings among U.S., Canadian and Mexican trade officials are expected in the coming months as negotiations continue toward the scheduled review of the agreement.

JBizNews Desk | Washington

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