USMCA Status Check: Is the Agreement Really Ending?

from Simply Trade · host Global Training Center

Host: Lalo Solorzano, Andy Shiles Guest(s): Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar Published: July 2, 2026 Length: 31:00 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary The USMCA review process is creating questions across North American trade circles: Is the agreement ending? Are new rules already in effect? What should companies do now? In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar, Vice President of COMCE Sur and a participant in USMCA/TMEC discussions, to clarify what is really happening. Fausto explains the USMCA sunset clause, why the agreement remains in force, and what the current review process means for businesses operating in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The conversation explores the most active topics on the table, including automotive rules of origin, labor value content, steel and aluminum requirements, China-related concerns, tariffs, and the future of regional sourcing. Fausto also shares practical guidance for companies that already claim USMCA benefits and for those that previously avoided qualification because it seemed too complex. The key message: USMCA is still alive, but companies should not be passive. Compliance reviews, origin documentation, tariff classifications, and supply chain localization are becoming more important than ever. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the current USMCA review process and what it means for companies doing business in North America. Fausto explains that the agreement has not been terminated and that current rules remain in place. However, because the United States has chosen not to simply extend the agreement as-is, the countries are entering a period of yearly reviews that could lead to negotiated changes. The discussion highlights the importance of certainty for investment, the role of industry associations in shaping negotiating positions, and the compliance steps companies should take now to prepare for increased scrutiny. Key Takeaways • USMCA remains in effect, and companies should continue operating under the current rules unless and until negotiated changes are formally implemented. • The review process is expected to focus heavily on agriculture, automotive, and steel, with automotive rules of origin and labor value content receiving particular attention. • Companies claiming USMCA benefits should perform internal “sanity checks” on tariff classification, origin calculations, certificates of origin, and supporting documentation. • Businesses that previously chose not to qualify under USMCA should reconsider, especially as tariff exposure and enforcement pressure increase. • Regional sourcing and supply chain visibility are becoming more important as companies prepare for future origin verifications and possible rule changes. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn • Andy Shiles on LinkedIn • Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar on LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s): Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? [email protected]

What this episode covers

Host: Lalo Solorzano, Andy ShilesGuest(s): Fausto R. Lopez AguilarPublished: July 2, 2026Length: 31:00Presented by: Global Training Center Summary The USMCA review process is creating questions across North American trade circles: Is the agreement ending? Are new rules already in effect? What should companies do now? In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar, Vice President of COMCE Sur and a participant in USMCA/TMEC discussions, to clarify what is really happening. Fausto explains the USMCA sunset clause, why the agreement remains in force, and what the current review process means for businesses operating in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The conversation explores the most active topics on the table, including automotive rules of origin, labor value content, steel and aluminum requirements, China-related concerns, tariffs, and the future of regional sourcing. Fausto also shares practical guidance for companies that already claim USMCA benefits and for those that previously avoided qualification because it seemed too complex. The key message: USMCA is still alive, but companies should not be passive. Compliance reviews, origin documentation, tariff classifications, and supply chain localization are becoming more important than ever. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the current USMCA review process and what it means for companies doing business in North America. Fausto explains that the agreement has not been terminated and that current rules remain in place. However, because the United States has chosen not to simply extend the agreement as-is, the countries are entering a period of yearly reviews that could lead to negotiated changes. The discussion highlights the importance of certainty for investment, the role of industry associations in shaping negotiating positions, and the compliance steps companies should take now to prepare for increased scrutiny. Key Takeaways • USMCA remains in effect, and companies should continue operating under the current rules unless and until negotiated changes are formally implemented. • The review process is expected to focus heavily on agriculture, automotive, and steel, with automotive rules of origin and labor value content receiving particular attention. • Companies claiming USMCA benefits should perform internal “sanity checks” on tariff classification, origin calculations, certificates of origin, and supporting documentation. • Businesses that previously chose not to qualify under USMCA should reconsider, especially as tariff exposure and enforcement pressure increase. • Regional sourcing and supply chain visibility are becoming more important as companies prepare for future origin verifications and possible rule changes. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center• Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn• Andy Shiles on LinkedIn• Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar on LinkedIn Credits Host:Lalo Solorzano – LinkedInAndy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s):Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar – LinkedIn Producer:Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts• Spotify• YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade• Global Training Center• Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic [email protected]