What was the main purpose of both NAFTA and the US MCA that replaced it

Answer 1

The main purpose of both the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) was to promote free trade and economic integration among the three countries involved - the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

NAFTA, which came into effect in 1994, aimed to eliminate trade barriers such as tariffs and reduce restrictions on the movement of goods, services, and investments between the member countries. The agreement sought to create a trilateral trade bloc and encourage more cross-border trade and investment, leading to increased economic growth and job opportunities.

The USMCA, which replaced NAFTA after its renegotiation in 2018, had similar objectives. It sought to modernize and update certain provisions of NAFTA and address issues that emerged over time. The USMCA focused on promoting fair and reciprocal trade, enhancing labor and environmental standards, and updating rules related to digital trade and intellectual property rights.

Overall, the primary purpose of both agreements was to establish a framework for economic cooperation, reduce trade barriers, and facilitate trade and investment between the United States, Mexico, and Canada.