A trade official from Mexico is hopeful to bring Canada back into the North American Free Trade Agreement talks to reach a three-way agreement, as early as next week. The comments come as the U.S. and Mexico were close to a “handshake” agreement Thursday, helping calm some anxieties for agriculture amidst the global trade turmoil.
Politico reports that the top trade negotiator for Mexico’s President-elect says reaching an agreement in principle between the U.S., Mexico and Canada next week “is an objective, a target.” The trade official told reporters he “wouldn’t bet (his) right hand,” but added: “I’d bet money” on reaching an all parties “handshake” agreement.
Canada has not joined the talks over the last month, as the U.S. and Mexico were working towards a preliminary agreement. Many issues over the last month were strictly between the U.S. and Mexico.
Canada and the U.S. have outstanding issues to resolve, quickly, if the Mexican official is correct. Those issues include dairy access and approval of certain U.S.-Mexico provisions.
Source: National Association of Farm Broadcasting News Service.