Statement from Washington Council on International Trade (WCIT) on the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA) Entering into Force
SEATTLE, July 1, 2020 – The USMCA, which enters into force today, marks an important step forward to free trade in North American and is welcome news for the farmers, ranchers, businesses, and workers throughout our state who rely on regional trade for their livelihoods. International trade has long been the cornerstone of Washington state’s economy, and the new trade pact includes key provisions to build on our robust trading relationships with Canada and Mexico.
In 2019, more than 18 percent of our state’s total exports go to our two neighbors, including nearly $11 billion in goods and services. WCIT was an early and strong supporter of USMCA as a way to update and modernize NAFTA and we have advocated for its swift implementation. WCIT will continue to advocate for strong trading relationships with Mexico and Canada.
ABOUT WASHINGTON COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE
On behalf of our members – manufacturers, farmers, retailers, service providers and non-profits – the Washington Council on International Trade advocates for pro-trade policies and investments that benefit Washington’s workers and employers. Trade paves the way for Washington-made goods and services to reach foreign markets, provides Washingtonians with products that raise our quality of life, and sustains family-wage jobs in numerous local industries. To learn more, visit us at https://www.wcit.org.