The most recognizable of all Trade Agreements is also the most notable and most notorious. It’s called the North American Free Trade Agreement or NAFTA. The NAFTA agreement originally was an agreement between the U.S, Canada and Mexico, and has been expanded to include additional countries and other expansions are currently under consideration.

   When NAFTA was first launched, many felt it would help other countries but would do very little to help America. There were many who feared NAFTA would drive hundreds of thousands of jobs out of the country. Now, nearly a decade and a half later, there are many indicators to suggest they may have been correct.

   California’s jobless rate is it’s highest level since 1994, Ohio’s jobless rate is at it’s highest in 15 years, and the U.S. jobless rates are at a 14 year high and is expected to reach 8% or higher.

   The list could go on and on, but in each, the story is the same. There is a connection here that shouldn’t be lost on people not familiar with NAFTA. In almost every instance, the date alluded to is 1994 or a 14 to 15 year high. Currently NAFTA is 14 years old and will, in about 3 weeks on January 1st, turn 15 years old.  Do you think there might be a connectin?

Still Under Construction - More about jobless rates and the U.S. labor markets wage movement toward the bottom will be added in the next few days.