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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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Lockheed Martin's Proposal: Job Creation Tied to F-35 Fighter Jet Contract

 

Lockheed Martin, the U.S. defense contractor behind the F-35 fighter jet, has proposed creating additional jobs in Canada if the Canadian government commits to fulfilling its full order of 88 F-35 aircraft. This offer comes amidst ongoing discussions about the $19 billion contract, which was initially signed in 2023 to replace Canada's aging CF-18 fleet.

Currently, Canada has committed to purchasing only 16 of the 88 jets, with the first deliveries expected in 2026. Lockheed Martin's proposal aims to incentivize Ottawa to proceed with the remaining 72 aircraft by emphasizing the economic benefits of job creation. The company has highlighted the potential for roles in engineering, manufacturing, and other sectors critical to the Canadian economy.

However, the proposal is not without controversy. Prime Minister Mark Carney has ordered a review of the F-35 contract, citing concerns over trade relations with the United States and the geopolitical implications of relying on U.S.-made military equipment. Alternatives, such as the Swedish Gripen fighter jet, are also being considered, with some advocating for domestic production to boost Canadian sovereignty and job creation.

As the federal government navigates these complex decisions, the debate over the F-35 contract underscores the intersection of defense procurement, economic growth, and international relations.


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