On July 1, 2020, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) officially replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This new agreement involves a number of changes from NAFTA, including new provisions for labor rights, environmental protection, and intellectual property.

One of the most significant changes in the USMCA is the increased emphasis on labor rights. The agreement includes provisions that require all three countries to uphold basic labor standards, such as the right to collective bargaining, and to enforce laws that protect workers from exploitation and discrimination. Additionally, the USMCA includes provisions that aim to improve working conditions for women and provide better access to training and education for workers in all three countries.

Another important change in the USMCA relates to environmental protection. The agreement includes new provisions that require all three countries to uphold environmental standards and to take measures to protect the environment. Additionally, the USMCA includes a provision that requires all three countries to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which is a significant step in addressing climate change.

In terms of intellectual property, the USMCA includes new provisions that aim to protect innovation and creativity. These provisions include increased protection for patents, trademarks, and other forms of intellectual property, as well as measures to prevent piracy and counterfeiting.

Overall, the USMCA represents a significant update from NAFTA, with provisions that aim to protect workers, the environment, and intellectual property. While some critics argue that the agreement does not go far enough in addressing issues such as labor rights, the USMCA represents an important step forward in North American trade relations. As the agreement continues to be implemented, it will be important to monitor its impact on workers, the environment, and innovation in all three countries.