Trump Signals Trade Talks With Canada and Mexico at World Cup Event

U.S. President Donald Trump met Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Friday during the draw for the 2026 World Cup in Washington, using the event to initiate discussions on trade and cross-border policy. The meeting comes ahead of the required 2026 review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The gathering took place at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and marked Trump’s first in-person exchange with Sheinbaum since she took office last year. Officials said the three leaders spoke privately. Carney’s office described the conversation as productive but did not release specific details.

Trump told reporters before the meeting that trade, immigration and tariffs would be central points. His remarks follow recent U.S. tariffs imposed on select Canadian and Mexican goods and signals that Washington may seek amendments to the pact or raise compliance demands during the upcoming review.

• Trump discusses early USMCA renegotiation plans with Canada and Mexico at World Cup event
• Trade, immigration, and tariff disputes emerge as priorities ahead of 2026 USMCA review
• Trump, Carney, and Sheinbaum signal cautious but strategic reopening of North American trade

Tensions surrounding the USMCA have grown in recent months, with industries in all three countries preparing for potential renegotiation. Business groups have expressed concern about uncertainty affecting long-term supply chains and investment commitments tied to the agreement.

No public commitments or timelines emerged from Friday’s discussions. However, the face-to-face meeting suggests the three governments are preparing to open formal dialogue months ahead of the review deadline.

Also Read: Iran Invites Lebanon's Foreign Minister for Talks on Regional Ties

Diplomats and trade analysts said the meeting provided an early opportunity to test negotiating positions and reduce friction before talks gain momentum next year. The leaders did not take questions following the event.