German Chancellor Calls for Quick Action on EU-Mercosur Agreement

During his inaugural foreign visit in Paris, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the urgency of ratifying the EU-Mercosur free trade deal. "The Mercosur deal should be ratified quickly and implemented," Merz stated at a press conference alongside French President Emmanuel Macron.

Background of the EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement

Negotiations for this landmark trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur bloc were finalized in December 2024. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the deal as a "win-win" for both parties.

Challenges Ahead for Ratification

Despite the conclusion of negotiations, the agreement awaits formal ratification. The European Commission plans to present proposals for signing by mid-2025, following a legal review and translation process. However, the path to ratification faces hurdles, with France and Poland opposing the deal, and other nations like Italy, Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands expressing concerns.