CANADA – North American Free Trade Association (NAFTA) negotiations have passed the crucial sixth round as Canada, the U.S. and Mexico move closer towards a renewed and modernized agreement.
However, much work remains to be done to achieve a positive result for North America’s businesses, says the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
“We’re encouraged that all three countries’ representatives reported progress toward a modernized agreement,” said Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
NAFTA negotiators (left to right) Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s minister of foreign affairs, Robert E. Lighthizer, the United States chief trade negotiator, and Ildefonso Guajardo, the Mexican secretary of the economy.“However, the work is far from over and there is still no guarantee of success,” Beatty added, noting that key issues are still unresolved. “We urge all three governments to focus on preserving and strengthening this important agreement. Our goal must be a North America that is more competitive, more prosperous and more successful for all our citizens.”
Negotiators have expressed cautious optimism about recent progress, including significant advances on several chapters, like digital trade, food safety, plant and animal health, and telecommunications.
During the closing press conference for round 6 negotiations, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer emphasized a number of issues, including the balance of trade between the U.S. and Canada. The Canadian Chamber supports the Government of Canada’s position that trade must be viewed in a broader sense, and not simply as entries on a balance sheet.
