US wheat industry urges USTR to protect Mexican market access and resolve trade barriers with Canada

The United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) has delivered major benefits for U.S. wheat farmers by eliminating tariffs and strengthening sanitary and phytosanitary rules. Today, Mexico is the most important export destination for U.S. wheat, accounting for about 20% of annual shipments — a sharp increase from less than 3% before trilateral trade frameworks were introduced in 1994.

In comments submitted to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers emphasized that a favorable trade environment and strong regional cooperation under USMCA have been key to this growth. The organizations urged the USTR to maintain U.S. competitiveness in Mexico, resolve outstanding trade issues with Canada, and continue developing a more integrated North American market.

Industry representatives stressed that open markets and fair trade are vital for the sector, as roughly half of U.S. wheat production is exported each year. Ensuring a level playing field for farmers supports stable exports and generates substantial economic benefits across the wheat value chain.

Mexico remains a central focus: U.S. wheat exports to the country rose from 625,000 tons in the first year of NAFTA to 4 million tons in the first full year of USMCA implementation. In the 2024/25 marketing year, U.S. shipments to Mexico totaled 3.4 million tons. According to industry leaders, this success is rooted in predictable trade policy and long-standing cooperation with Mexican millers and bakers.

The submission also highlights areas where further progress is needed with Canada. Although Canada is an important ally in rules-based trade, it is also a major competitor. U.S. producers point to issues such as Canada’s variety registration system and its railroad maximum revenue entitlement, noting that both require additional work to ensure fair outcomes. Their priority, they stress, is to preserve the core text of the USMCA and prevent new trade barriers within North America.

Tags: Canada, wheat, USA, Mexico