Canada and Mexico account for nearly one-third of North Carolina exports, making the upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) an important moment for the state’s business community. As the 2026 review approaches, the NC Chamber Foundation has developed a situational briefing highlighting what’s at stake for North Carolina’s economy and business community. 

USMCA at the 2026 Review: What North Carolina Businesses Should Know

Key Facts 

• North Carolina exported a record $43.8 billion in goods in 2025. 
• Canada and Mexico account for nearly one-third of North Carolina exports, with Canada serving as the state’s largest export market. 
• Nearly 11,000 North Carolina companies export goods, including more than 9,500 small and medium-sized businesses. 
• Trade with Canada and Mexico supports as many as 142,000 jobs across North Carolina.
• North Carolina imported roughly $17 billion in goods from Mexico and more than $8 billion from Canada in 2024, making the two countries among the state’s largest foreign suppliers.

Why it Matters 

Canada and Mexico serve as critical partners in regional supply chains and key markets for North Carolina businesses. USMCA provides the stability and predictability businesses rely on to invest, grow, and compete across North America. Manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, life sciences, and small and medium-sized exporters all benefit from a North American trade framework that supports long-term planning, investment, and market access. 

The 2026 review will determine whether the agreement is extended for another 16 years or moves into a period of annual reviews. While annual reviews could provide an opportunity to address sector-specific priorities, they could also introduce additional uncertainty for businesses making long-term decisions about investment, sourcing, and expansion. 

As North America’s economic and trade landscape continues to evolve, the 2026 USMCA review represents an important moment for businesses across North Carolina. To read the full briefing, explore key findings, and learn what business leaders should consider in the weeks ahead, click here.  

If you have questions about the report or are interested in engaging more on this topic, please reach out to NC Chamber Foundation Senior Director of Infrastructure Competitiveness Dana Magliola.