Negotiations on NAFTA between Canada and the U.S. are moving into the final phase, with both sides having moved far off their original negotiating positions. Prime Minister Trudeau says Canada remains committed to achieving an updated agreement that is “constructive, positive, serious and creative.” He brushed off reports suggesting that the U.S. is not prepared to make any concessions, but was quick to add that Canada’s negotiators are “going to be unequivocal about always standing up for Canadians’ rights and Canadians’ interests.”
A key remaining point of contention is Chapter 19, which allows companies hit with anti-dumping or countervailing duties to request international arbitration. Canada and Mexico want it retained, the U.S. wants it removed.
Watch for updates, as there could be significant developments in the coming days.
For more information please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 213.
