Dive into the future of North American trade, what’s next for CUSMA, and why Canada should care.
The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) governs nearly $2 trillion in North American trade and shapes everything from supply chains and labour standards to energy policy and digital commerce. Yet as the agreement approaches a critical 2026 review, its future — and Canada’s leverage within it — is increasingly uncertain.
In this timely session, SPPGA Expert-in-Residence, Diamond Isinger will break down:
- what CUSMA is and how it differs from NAFTA
- what negotiations and review processes are unfolding now
- how shifting U.S. politics, protectionism, and economic nationalism are influencing Canada’s trade options
Speakers also include:
Daniel Kiselbach brings 35 years of experience in global trade, customs, tax, transportation, and logistics. Dan leads Miller Thomson’s Global Trade and Customs and Vancouver Tax Groups and is the firm’s Vancouver Office Managing Partner. He is a licensed lawyer in Canada and the US. He provides a wide range of global trade and customs advice for firms in various sectors including aerospace, agriculture-food, finance, e-commerce, logistics, manufacturing, and mining. Dan also owns and operates Tradestar International Corporation, a licensed customs broker in Canada. Tradestar leverages the experience of its staff to ensure global trade and customs compliance. The firm’s digital portal and AI engine offers an efficient modern touchless customer experience.
Kurt Niquidet is Vice President and Chief Economist for the BC Council of Forest Industries, which represents the majority of lumber, pulp and paper, and manufactured wood producers across the province. Kurt is also affiliated with UBC as Adjunct Professor for the Master of Food and Resource Economics and Faculty of Forestry.
Gregor Sharp is Academic Director of The Phil Lind Initiative at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs at the University of British Columbia, which has hosted Lind speakers and insights this winter on the United States’ relationship with Canada and the world from voices like Rachel Maddow, Thomas Friedman, and Hasan Piker. He is also an Account Director at Earnscliffe Strategies and has a consulting practice in public opinion research.
The discussion will explore what’s at stake for Canada’s economy, workers, industries, and global credibility — and why trade agreements like CUSMA are as much about power and governance as they are about tariffs.
