The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) recently participated in a briefing with labor experts and members of Congress to highlight worker-focused reforms needed in the upcoming review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The event aimed to inform Congressional staff about ongoing concerns related to wage disparities, enforcement challenges, and foreign exploitation that could threaten U.S. jobs.
During the briefing, participants called for stronger Rules of Origin to prevent offshoring and recommended closing loopholes that allow Chinese goods to enter the United States through Mexico without tariffs. They also advocated for expanding enforcement tools such as the Rapid Response Mechanism, addressing wage gaps that drive jobs out of the country, and protecting key manufacturing sectors like aerospace, automotive, steel, and aluminum.
Peter Greenberg, IAM Union International Affairs Director, emphasized risks facing 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.
He also pointed out concerns regarding China’s use of Mexico as a route for transshipping goods into the United States. “China is using Mexico as a transshipment location,” Greenberg continued. “It allows goods to be repackaged and essentially enter the United States tariff-free.”
Greenberg noted that this practice could make Mexico a final assembly point for Chinese aerospace products—a development he warned could jeopardize jobs at companies such as Boeing and Airbus as well as those in U.S. jet engine manufacturing. He referenced China’s efforts in commercial aviation with projects like COMAC C919 and their Belt and Road Initiative financing strategy that increases competitive pressure on North American manufacturers.
Other speakers included Rep. Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee; Riley Ohlson from AFL-CIO; Roy Houseman from United Steelworkers; and Christopher Zatratz from United Auto Workers.
