German Chancellor Advocates for Mercosur Deal

During his inaugural foreign visit to 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.

Background of the EU-Mercosur Agreement

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.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the agreement's conclusion, ratification faces hurdles. The European Commission plans to propose signing and concluding the deal by mid-2025, pending legal review. Opposition from France and Poland, along with concerns from other EU members, complicates the path forward.