Steel and aluminum tariffs against Canada and Mexico remain a roadblock that would limit the impact of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The tariffs could prove to be a huge obstacle for congressional passage of the deal next year, as lawmakers have expressed displeasure with the duties remaining in place, despite a new trade agreement.
The U.S. is facing industry and agricultural retaliatory tariffs on more than $15 billion worth of goods. Agriculture industry analysts say the tariffs would negate any benefit from the trade agreement. Negotiations to remove the tariffs are ongoing. This was confirmed by U.S. Ag Negotiator Gregg Doud in Des Moines, Iowa, on Wednesday. Doud said there is a lot of work being done. ?It is a huge priority for us, right now, to see if we can get that resolved.? U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said any deal to eliminate the U.S. duties should be ?fair? to Canada and Mexico but maintain ?the integrity of the president?s steel and aluminum programs.?
