Trump’s Economic Jump-Start Hinges on Two Allies He Often Scorns

As President Donald Trump and his economic advisers look to start reopening the U.S. economy in May, a central question is emerging for companies with supply chains stretching across North America: What if Mexico and Canada don’t have the same timetable in mind?

Manufacturers in sectors ranging from chemicals to electronics have suppliers across the continent’s national borders. The automotive industry, which halted operations weeks ago to protect workers from the Covid-19 pandemic, is also contemplating how to reboot in North America.

Much of the uncertainty about timing revolves around Mexico, which so far has taken an even stricter approach ...