The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) participated in a recent briefing with labor experts and Congressional members to discuss labor priorities in the upcoming review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The event aimed to inform Congressional staff about the need for trade reforms that prioritize workers.
Speakers at the briefing acknowledged that while USMCA has made improvements over its predecessor, NAFTA, significant challenges remain. These include wage disparities, limited enforcement measures, and increased risks of foreign exploitation that could impact U.S. jobs.
Key topics addressed during the session included proposals to strengthen Rules of Origin in order to discourage offshoring, close loopholes enabling Chinese transshipment and final assembly through Mexico, enhance labor enforcement tools such as the Rapid Response Mechanism, reduce wage gaps that drive job relocation, and protect critical manufacturing sectors like aerospace, automotive, steel, and aluminum.
Peter Greenberg, IAM Union International Affairs Director, emphasized concerns regarding potential disruptions in the aerospace sector. “One of our great fears has been an interruption of the aerospace supply chain, particularly because it is very closely tied between the U.S. and Canada,” said Greenberg.
Greenberg also highlighted issues related to China’s use of Mexico as a transshipment hub. “China is using Mexico as a transshipment location,” he stated. “It allows goods to be repackaged and essentially enter the United States tariff-free.” He warned that Mexico could serve as a final assembly site for Chinese aerospace products—a development he said could threaten jobs associated with Boeing, Airbus, and U.S. jet engine manufacturing. Greenberg pointed to China’s expansion into commercial aviation with projects like COMAC C919 and Belt and Road financing as additional pressures on North American production.
Other speakers included Representative Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.), AFL-CIO Legislative Representative Riley Ohlson, United Steelworkers Legislative Director Roy Houseman, and United Auto Workers Legislative Representative Christopher Zatratz.
