The Indicator from Planet Money · Wednesday, July 1, 2026
The USMCA, which replaced NAFTA, includes a 'sunset clause' that acts as a sell-by date for the agreement, set for July 1st, 2026. This clause means the trade pact has a countdown to expiration, creating a ticking clock for the three North American countries.
“But maybe the biggest structural change from NAFTA was the introduction of a sunset clause.”
“Yeah, a sunset clause. Think of it like a sell-by date on a jar of pickles. You can still eat it, but the countdown to expiration has begun.”
“And the USMCA's sell-by date is July 1st, 2026.”