The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was a landmark trade pact signed in 1992 by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. It aimed to eliminate most tariffs and trade barriers among the three countries, creating a free-trade bloc in North America. Negotiations began in June 1991 and were finalized on August 12, 1992, with the agreement being signed on December 17, 1992[1][2][3]. NAFTA officially entered into force on January 1, 1994, and it superseded the 1988 Canada–United States Free Trade Agreement[2][3]. **History and Objectives:** NAFTA was inspired by the European Economic Community's success in eliminating tariffs. It extended the provisions of the U.S.-Canada Free Trade Agreement to include Mexico, fostering economic growth and job creation through increased trade and investment[1][2]. The agreement was negotiated by U.S. President George H.W. Bush, Mexican President Carlos Salinas de Gortari, and Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney[1][2]. **Key Achievements:** - **Economic Growth:** NAFTA significantly increased trade among its member countries, making the region one of the world's largest trade blocs by GDP[2]. - **Job Creation:** Although controversial, NAFTA was credited with creating jobs in various sectors, particularly in the U.S. and Mexico[1][2]. - **Market Access:** It provided greater access to markets for goods and services across North America[4]. **Current Status:** NAFTA was replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on July 1, 2020. The USMCA builds upon NAFTA with enhanced environmental and labor provisions, updated intellectual property protections, and changes to automotive rules of origin[4]. **Notable Aspects:** - **Environmental and Labor Agreements:** NAFTA included side agreements on environmental and labor cooperation, which were enhanced