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The CUSMA Countdown: 24 Days to a Trade Deadline That Could Hit Your Wallet

Canada's free trade deal with the U.S. hits a mandatory review milestone on July 1. With negotiations unresolved and Washington demanding changes, here's what it actually means for your groceries, your car, and your job. MoneySavings.ca Staff Canadian Money Brief June 7, 2026 5 min read What Is CUSMA and Why Does July 1 Matter? CUSMA — the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement — is the trade deal that keeps the North American economy humming. It replaced NAFTA in 2020 and governs the movement of trillions of dollars in goods and services across the Canada-U.S. border every year. For Canadian consumers, it's largely invisible — until it isn't. Built into the agreement is a mandatory six-year joint review, and that clock expires on July 1, 2026 . By that date, all three countries must declare whether they want to renew the deal for another 16 years, trigger annual reviews, or walk away. Whatever they decide, CUSMA technically stays in force until 2036 — but the path chose...

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Canada Braces for Lasting Economic Impact Amid U.S. Trade Tensions

 

The Bank of Canada’s Governing Council has issued a stark warning: a protracted trade conflict with the United States could permanently depress the nation’s GDP level. In recent meeting minutes, officials noted that the uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy—exacerbated by the threat of significant tariffs—could lead to a lasting reduction in economic output.

With nearly 75% of Canadian exports destined for the U.S., even temporary disruptions could force businesses to recalibrate their investment plans and supply chains, resulting in a permanent shift in the country’s economic potential. The central bank’s decision to trim its key policy rate by 25 basis points to 3% underscores the urgency of addressing these risks amid rising inflation pressures and subdued business confidence.

While the exact outcomes remain uncertain, the consensus among policymakers is clear: unless the trade tensions are resolved, Canada may face a long-term decline in GDP growth, along with accompanying inflationary pressures that could complicate future economic recovery efforts. The Bank of Canada plans to monitor the situation closely, ready to adjust its policy stance as needed to mitigate these challenges.


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