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CUSMA Review 2026: What Happens on July 1 — and What It Means for Your Wallet

The trade deal that governs nearly $1.3 trillion in Canada-U.S. commerce is up for review in less than a week. Here's what's at stake for Canadian families — and how to protect your budget whatever happens next. By MoneySavings.ca Staff  |   June 25, 2026 Canada Day is almost here — and this year, July 1 carries a lot more weight than fireworks and barbecues. On that same date, Canada, the United States, and Mexico are required to sit down for the first mandatory review of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement , known in Canada as CUSMA (and in the U.S. as the USMCA). The outcome of these talks will help shape the price of your groceries, your next car payment, Canadian jobs, and the overall cost of living for years to come. If you've heard the buzz but aren't sure what it all means for your household budget, you're in the right place. Here's your plain-language breakdown. What Is CUSMA — and Why Should You Care? CUSMA replaced the old NAFTA deal in 2020 an...

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Canada’s Economy Stumbles: October GDP Sees Sharpest Decline Since 2022


Canada’s economy hit a setback in October 2025, with real GDP contracting by 0.3%, the largest monthly drop in nearly three years. The decline erased September’s modest 0.2% growth and underscored the fragility of the country’s recovery amid global and domestic challenges.

Key Drivers of the Contraction

  • Manufacturing slump: Output fell 1.5%, reversing September’s gains. Durable goods manufacturing, particularly machinery and wood products, saw steep declines, with lumber production dropping 7.3% following new U.S. tariffs.
  • Goods-producing industries: Overall, these sectors contracted 0.7%, led by manufacturing and mining.
  • Services-producing industries: Activity slipped 0.2%, weighed down by labor stoppages in key service areas.
  • Broad impact: 11 of 20 industrial sectors reported declines, highlighting widespread weakness across the economy.

Broader Context

Despite the October setback, Canada’s GDP was still up 0.4% year-over-year, reflecting modest growth compared to 2024 levels. Economists note that while the contraction was sharp, it aligned with expectations and may prove temporary, as preliminary data suggests a slight rebound in November.

The Bank of Canada, which held its policy interest rate steady at 2.25% in December, described the economy as “resilient overall” but warned of elevated uncertainty. Trade tensions with the U.S. and domestic labor disruptions remain key risks heading into 2026.

Outlook

The October contraction serves as a reminder of Canada’s economic vulnerabilities, particularly in manufacturing and resource sectors. Analysts suggest that sustained recovery will depend on easing trade frictions, stabilizing labor markets, and maintaining consumer demand.

In short: October’s GDP decline was Canada’s sharpest since December 2022, driven by manufacturing weakness and labor disruptions, but early signs point to a modest rebound in November.


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