EU-Mercosur Talks Continue, Deal Not Finalized
The European Union (EU) confirmed on Tuesday that the long-negotiated EU-Mercosur trade deal is "not quite there yet," but discussions are still ongoing, as reported by the European Commission. This statement comes amidst farmer protests across Europe, particularly in France and Belgium, where farmers have been staging roadblocks to voice concerns over their revenues and working conditions.
European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer addressed the ongoing negotiations, emphasizing the EU's commitment to reaching an agreement that aligns with sustainability objectives and addresses concerns in the agricultural sector. While the contours of the deal with Mercosur countries—Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay—were agreed upon in 2019 after nearly two decades of talks, a final version is yet to be ratified.
Farmers, particularly in France, have been critical of the potential impacts of the Mercosur deal, fearing it could lead to a further decrease in produce prices and heightened competition from South American agricultural exporters.
The French government, notably President Emmanuel Macron, has expressed reservations about the agreement. Reports indicate that President Macron is set to discuss the Mercosur deal with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during an EU summit in Brussels on Thursday. Negotiations on Mercosur have reportedly faced a temporary suspension due to Paris' opposition, according to officials in Macron's office.
Commission spokesman Eric Mamer confirmed that discussions, labeled "exchanges," have taken place between Macron and von der Leyen, but he did not immediately confirm a scheduled meeting on Thursday.
Mamer reiterated that negotiations on the Mercosur deal are still ongoing, underscoring the EU's efforts to strike a balance between economic considerations and addressing the concerns raised by farmers. The fate of the EU-Mercosur trade deal remains uncertain, with the complex negotiations continuing against the backdrop of domestic protests and varying perspectives within the EU member states.
