USMCA wins broad North American backing ahead of 2024 review

A new survey reveals strong support for the USMCA across North America. The trade deal, set for its first six-year review on 1 July 2024, is widely seen as beneficial for the region’s economies. Most respondents in Mexico, the United States, and Canada view it as a key driver of economic ties. In Mexico, 82% of people consider economic links with the United States important. Of these, 49% call them 'very important', while 33% describe them as 'somewhat important'. The USMCA itself enjoys broad approval, with 73% believing it benefits Mexico’s economy. Support for trade deals has grown over time, with 78% seeing NAFTA as beneficial in 2018.

The USMCA also fares better than general free trade agreements in Mexico. Half of Mexicans think free trade has helped the country, but the USMCA’s ratings are higher. Still, 50% would renegotiate the deal, and 20% would consider leaving it.

In the United States, 73% would improve relations with Mexico and Canada, even at the cost of economic compromises. Only 51% prefer keeping the USMCA unchanged. Canadian views differ: 52% support maintaining the agreement, but 69% would refuse concessions that could harm ties with the US. The survey by Buendía & Márquez, The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, and Nanos Research highlights the USMCA’s perceived value. Most North Americans see it as a vital economic tool. The upcoming review will test whether this support translates into stability or sparks calls for change.