Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the formation of a new and expanded advisory committee on Canada–United States economic relations, as a crucial review of the North American trade agreement approaches.
The newly تشكيل 24-member committee replaces a previous council established under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, with only four members retained. The committee will be chaired by Dominic LeBlanc, who oversees Canada’s trade relations with the United States. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the panel is scheduled to hold its first meeting on April 27.
Canada, the United States, and Mexico are partners in the USMCA free trade agreement—known in Canada as CUSMA—which is set for review by July 1. The agreement has played a vital role in protecting Canada’s economy, particularly given that nearly 70% of its exports are destined for the U.S. market.
Despite trade tensions and tariff policies introduced under U.S. President Donald Trump, up to 85% of Canadian goods entering the U.S. remain exempt from tariffs. Economists say this exemption has helped Canada avoid slipping into a recession.
However, uncertainty surrounding the future of the agreement has weighed heavily on business confidence. Industry leaders and corporations are urging the government to secure an extension of the USMCA, warning that ongoing ambiguity is dampening investment and hiring.
The advisory committee includes several prominent figures from business, labor, and politics. Among those retained are Flavio Volpe, Lana Payne, Tabatha Bull, and former deputy prime minister Jean Charest.
New additions to the panel include Erin O’Toole, Candace Laing, and Dennis Darby.
The formation of this committee signals Ottawa’s intent to strengthen its strategic approach ahead of the USMCA review, amid growing calls for economic stability and long-term trade certainty.