German Chancellor Calls for Quick Action on Mercosur Deal

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 joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Historic Agreement Faces Hurdles

The EU and Mercosur bloc finalized their long-awaited trade agreement in December 2024, hailed as a "win-win" by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Despite this milestone, the deal's formal ratification is still pending, with the European Commission aiming to present proposals by mid-2025.

Opposition and Concerns Loom

If classified as a mixed agreement, the deal requires ratification by at least 15 EU member states representing 65% of the population. However, France and Poland have voiced opposition, with Italy, Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands raising concerns, casting uncertainty over the agreement's future.