CUSMA Agreement by 2026: A strategic framework for charging stations in condos and multi-unit residential buildings
Montreal, February 6, 2026
The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), also known as CUSMA, has formed the basis of North American trade since it came into force in 2020. In 2026, the review planned by the agreement marks a structuring step for companies active in clean technologies and energy infrastructure, particularly in the electric vehicle charging station sector.
In our work installing charging stations in multi-residential environments, the CUSMA (Canadian Union of Motor Vehicles) framework has a direct impact on equipment availability, cost stability, project planning, and investment security. Understanding this framework is essential for effectively supporting property managers, developers, and institutional decision-makers.
The CUSMA: Foundation of Modern North American Trade
A continuity and modernization agreement
The CUSMA replaces NAFTA while retaining its central principle: preferential access to the Canadian, American, and Mexican markets. However, it modernizes the trade framework to adapt it to current economic realities, particularly in the technology, energy, and industrial sectors.
For us, this agreement represents above all an environment of regulatory and commercial predictability, essential when it comes to deploying charging infrastructure in buildings whose life cycle extends over several decades.
The 2026 review: a planned and structuring mechanism
Unlike a complete renegotiation, the 2026 review is part of the normal operation of the CUSMA. It aims to assess its effectiveness and to confirm the commitment of the three countries to maintaining an integrated North American market.
This step is particularly important for sectors linked to the energy transition, as it confirms the central role of clean technologies in long-term economic exchanges.
The role of the CUSMA in the supply chains of charging stations
Facilitating trade and reducing barriers
One of the major advantages of the CUSMA lies in the elimination of the majority of customs duties between the three countries, provided that the products comply with North American rules of origin.
In the context of charging stations and electrical infrastructure, this translates to:
- improved fluidity in the import of terminals, components and specialized equipment,
- a reduction in project-related costs,
- a reduction in the delays associated with border procedures.
Securing infrastructure projects
Charging projects in condominiums and multi-unit residential buildings require rigorous planning. The MUHC framework allows us to work with stable and diversified supply chains across North America, which reduces operational risks for our clients.
This stability is a key factor when it comes to deploying scalable solutions capable of adapting to the gradual increase in the number of electric vehicles.
Why is the CUSMA strategic for multi-unit residential buildings?
Issues distinct from those of individual residential buildings
Multi-unit residential buildings present specific constraints:
- Shared electrical capacity
- collective management of infrastructure,
- billing and cost allocation needs,
- higher compliance requirements.
The North American commercial framework supported by the CUSMA promotes access to technologies adapted to these complex realities, often developed and proven in large-scale markets.
Better integration of smart charging technologies
The economic integration encouraged by CUSMA facilitates access to:
- advanced load management systems,
- interoperable software platforms,
- equipment compatible with a wide variety of electric vehicles.
This allows us to design charging infrastructures that can evolve without requiring a complete overhaul at each new phase of adoption.
The 2026 CUSMA review and its implications for the electricity transition
A strong signal for long-term investments
Even without immediate major changes, the 2026 revision sends a clear message: North America maintains a stable and integrated trading framework. For real estate investors and asset managers, this signal is crucial.
He confirms that investments in charging infrastructure are not based on temporary policies, but on a sustainable economic vision.
A favorable context for the expansion of charging networks
As the electric vehicle fleet grows, so does the pressure on existing infrastructure. The MUSMA indirectly contributes to supporting this growth by:
- stabilizing equipment costs,
- promoting technological innovation,
- strengthening cooperation between North American actors.
Indirect effects of the CUSMA on the adoption of electric vehicles
A structural acceleration of demand
Even though the CUSMA is not a sector-specific agreement dedicated to electric vehicles, it creates the conditions necessary for their widespread adoption. For multi-unit residential buildings, this means that charging becomes an essential service, not just an optional extra.
Buildings that anticipate this development benefit from a clear advantage in terms of real estate value, rental attractiveness and asset sustainability.
Increased responsibility for real estate decision-makers
In this context, managers and condominium associations must integrate charging from the strategic planning phase. The MUSMA framework reinforces the relevance of this approach by offering a coherent and predictable business environment.
Specific opportunities for specialized B2B companies
Easier access to North American partners and suppliers
The CUSMA promotes cross-border collaboration, which allows us to work with specialized technology partners and offer complete solutions, integrating hardware, software and services.
A professional and structured approach to recharging
This business framework supports increased professionalization of the multi-dwelling charging sector by encouraging:
- compliant and standardized installations,
- evolving systems,
- a long-term vision aligned with the real needs of the market.
Limitations and points of vigilance
Rules of origin and regulatory compliance
Despite its advantages, the CUSMA imposes certain requirements, particularly regarding rules of origin and technical compliance. These elements must be integrated from the project design stage to avoid costly adjustments later on.
Need for specialized expertise
The commercial framework facilitates exchanges, but it does not replace the technical, regulatory and strategic expertise needed to successfully complete complex projects in multi-residential environments.
Conclusion: CUSMA as a pillar of our long-term vision
In 2026, the MUSMA confirms its role as an economic pillar for North America. For our sector, it provides a solid foundation on which to build sustainable, scalable charging infrastructure aligned with the energy transition.
By integrating this framework into our strategic thinking, we are able to support real estate players in making structuring decisions, oriented towards the long term, and compatible with the rapid evolution of electric mobility.
The CUSMA is not simply a commercial agreement. It is a key factor in ensuring stability and consistency for the deployment of charging stations in condos and multi-unit residential buildings across North America.