The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) participated in a recent briefing with labor experts and members of Congress to highlight labor concerns in the ongoing review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The event aimed to inform Congressional staff about labor priorities and advocate for reforms that support workers.
Speakers noted that, while USMCA has improved on its predecessor NAFTA, there remain significant issues such as wage disparities, enforcement weaknesses, and increased foreign exploitation that could threaten jobs in the United States. Labor representatives called for stronger Rules of Origin to discourage offshoring, closure of loopholes allowing Chinese transshipment through Mexico, better enforcement mechanisms like the Rapid Response Mechanism, measures to reduce wage gaps between countries, and protections for key manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, steel, and aluminum.
Aerospace was a main topic at the briefing. IAM Union International Affairs Director Peter Greenberg emphasized the risks posed by disruptions in this sector due to its strong interconnection between the U.S. and Canada.
“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 concerns over China’s use of Mexico as a gateway for goods entering the United States without tariffs.
“China is using Mexico as a transshipment location,” Greenberg continued. “It allows goods to be repackaged and essentially enter the United States tariff-free.”
He warned that if left unaddressed, these practices could result in job losses connected to major companies such as Boeing and Airbus. Greenberg referenced China’s commercial aviation initiatives like COMAC C919 and financing efforts under Belt and Road as additional competitive 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.
