German Chancellor Calls for Swift Action

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

Historic Agreement Faces Hurdles

Negotiations between the EU and the Mercosur bloc concluded in December 2024, marking a significant milestone. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the agreement as a "win-win" for both parties. However, the path to ratification is fraught with challenges, as the deal awaits legal review and translation.

Opposition and Concerns Loom

With the European Commission set to propose the deal's signing by mid-2025, opposition from France and Poland, alongside reservations from Italy, Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands, underscores the complexities of achieving consensus among EU member states.