Washington state, known for its trade-driven economy, has a strong partnership with Canada, which serves as its top trading partner and the number one export market for agricultural goods. The Association of Washington Business (AWB) recently organized a trade mission to Canada, the fourth in a series of international trade missions. The mission aimed to enhance ties among partners in the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which is set for review in 2026. The delegation included Washington Lt. Gov Denny Deck, state Department of Agriculture Director Derek Sandison, state legislators, and business leaders. During the trip, discussions covered various topics such as expanding trade, energy, transportation, agriculture, and the economic impact of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The delegation also learned about the Port of Vancouver's expansion project, which aims to increase container capacity and reduce environmental impact. Energy was a key focus, with discussions on clean energy goals and technology. The trade mission highlighted the significance of cross-border collaboration and the need to invest in trade relationships for the benefit of Washington's economy. [8c11246a]
In related news, the United States and Canada have reached an agreement in principle renewing the Columbia River Treaty, which governs the use of the Columbia Basin and its hydropower dams. The deal strives to balance energy coordination and allows Canada more opportunities to import and export hydropower into the U.S. market. The U.S. will benefit from water storage at Canadian dams, which control flooding and protect vulnerable communities. The agreement is yet to be ratified by the U.S. Senate and negotiations will continue to finalize details of the treaty. The goal is to bring the agreement to the region for consideration and discussion. The treaty is of immense significance to the prosperity of the Northwest and the Columbia River is important for tribal and Indigenous peoples, the economy, agriculture, and commercial cargo. Negotiations on the treaty modernization began in 2018. [6ee61f8d]
The British Columbia government, in a recent development, has announced its support for the consultation on nation-to-nation co-management of the Columbia River Treaty. While the province will not join the consultation, it will provide technical expertise and advice to the federal government and Indigenous nations during the process. The consultation aims to explore the possibility of a new approach to the management of the treaty, which is set to be renegotiated between Canada and the United States. This decision comes after concerns were raised about the lack of Indigenous representation in the negotiations. [bcf2f1bb]