Brazil’s President Foresees Challenges in Securing EU Approval for Mercosur Trade Agreement
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has expressed pessimism regarding the imminent approval of the Mercosur trade agreement by the European Union, citing internal political obstacles within Italy adn France. According to a report by El Mundo on December 17, 2025, President Lula stated, “Now I know that they are not going to get it approved [en el Consejo Europeo]. It’s difficult,because Italy and France do not want to do it due to internal political problems.”
The Mercosur agreement, a trade pact between Brazil, Argentina, paraguay, and Uruguay, has been under negotiation with the EU for over two decades. While a political agreement was reached in 2019, ratification has been stalled due to concerns over environmental issues, particularly deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, and anxieties among european farmers about increased competition.
President Lula’s comments highlight the ongoing difficulties in navigating the political landscape within the EU. both Italy and France are facing domestic pressures that influence their stance on the trade deal. In France, agricultural lobbies have voiced strong opposition, fearing that cheaper imports from Mercosur countries will undermine local producers. Italy’s concerns are reportedly linked to its own internal political dynamics and potential impacts on specific industries.
The Brazilian president’s assessment suggests a need for renewed diplomatic efforts to address the concerns of member states and secure the necessary approvals.The future of the Mercosur-EU trade agreement remains uncertain, dependent on resolving these political hurdles and demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices.
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