The European Union’s free‑trade agreement with the South American bloc Mercosur is facing a crucial test this week as France launches a last‑ditch effort to derail the landmark deal. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to sign the agreement in Brazil on Saturday, but she first needs approval from EU member states.
The pact, 20 years in the making, would create the world’s largest free‑trade area. It would allow the EU to export more vehicles, machinery, wines and spirits to Latin America, while facilitating the entry of South American beef, sugar, rice, honey and soybeans into Europe. France, the leading critic of the agreement, has called for a postponement, citing concerns about its agricultural sector. Paris is demanding robust safeguard clauses, tighter import controls and stricter standards for Mercosur producers. Up to 10,000 farmers plan to protest in Brussels during a leaders’ summit on Thursday and Friday, underscoring the deal’s contentious nature.
Despite French opposition, the agreement is likely to proceed because it only requires the support of a weighted majority of EU countries. Germany, Spain and the Nordic states are strong backers, eager to boost exports amid Chinese competition and U.S. tariffs. Nevertheless, disagreements are leaving some EU officials uneasy; one diplomat warned of a “serious European crisis” if a compromise is not reached. The European Parliament will vote on “safeguard” measures aimed at reassuring farmers on Tuesday, which could further complicate the approval process. The Commission has announced tighter checks on farm imports and pledged to update rules on pesticide residues to address concerns.
Von der Leyen intends to sign the deal in Brazil, but the battle is far from over, as the European Parliament must still give its final approval in early 2026. The outcome is uncertain, with national interests weighing heavily. Insiders expect a close vote, with opposition from French and Polish lawmakers as well as far‑left and far‑right groups. The deal’s fate hangs in the balance as the EU navigates a complex web of trade negotiations and internal politics. While the signing would mark a significant step toward creating a major free‑trade area, its approval is far from guaranteed.
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