President Donald Trump has ordered a complete review of U.S. trade policy, setting April 1 as the deadline for receiving recommendations that could impact the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The administration will seek a trade policy that prioritizes the U.S. economy, its workers, and national security.
In Trump's memorandum, the U.S. Trade Representative is instructed to initiate a public consultation process in preparation for the review scheduled for July 2026. Additionally, Jamieson Greer is proposed as a candidate for this position, who could be responsible for implementing tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, although his nomination is still pending confirmation by Congress.
The assessment of the USMCA must examine its impact on workers, farmers, ranchers, and U.S. businesses, presenting a report to Congress. Trump also requested the Department of Commerce to investigate the causes of the annual U.S. trade deficits and their implications for economic and national security.
Regarding Mexico, the creation of the External Revenue Service for foreigners is anticipated, which would assist in the collection of tariffs and other revenue related to foreign trade. In the area of security, a review of the U.S. industrial and manufacturing base is ordered to determine if import adjustments are necessary.
Trump’s order to review the USMCA includes assessing the flows of illegal migration and fentanyl from Canada and Mexico, requesting recommendations on trade and national security measures to address this issue. In turn, a 25% tariff will be applied to Canada and Mexico starting February 1.
The document also addresses China, ordering a review of the existing bilateral trade agreement and considering potential additional tariff modifications. Greer is tasked with investigating Chinese trade practices that could harm U.S. trade, with findings and recommendations to be presented in three unified reports before April 1, 2025, coordinated by the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the U.S. Trade Representative.
