The European Union is poised to strike a major trade deal with Latin American countries, potentially creating a free trade area of over 700 million people. The agreement, known as Mercosur, has been in the works for several years and is set to be finalized after the European Parliament adopts its negotiating mandate.
Proponents of the deal argue that it would provide a significant boost to European businesses and farmers, while also opening up new markets for EU goods. The accord promises safeguards for European agricultural producers, including measures to prevent unfair competition from Latin American imports.
However, critics are concerned that the deal could lead to a loss of competitiveness for European farmers and industries, particularly if Latin American countries do not adhere to similar environmental and social standards. Some have also raised concerns about the potential impact on EU food safety regulations, as some Latin American countries may be less stringent in their oversight of agricultural practices.
Despite these concerns, the EU has seen trade agreements with China and the US as a way to compensate for the lack of access to these large markets. The Mercosur deal could provide an alternative route into these key economies, potentially mitigating the impact of EU trade disputes.
The European Parliament is set to debate the negotiating mandate in coming days, paving the way for formal talks on the final shape of the agreement.
Proponents of the deal argue that it would provide a significant boost to European businesses and farmers, while also opening up new markets for EU goods. The accord promises safeguards for European agricultural producers, including measures to prevent unfair competition from Latin American imports.
However, critics are concerned that the deal could lead to a loss of competitiveness for European farmers and industries, particularly if Latin American countries do not adhere to similar environmental and social standards. Some have also raised concerns about the potential impact on EU food safety regulations, as some Latin American countries may be less stringent in their oversight of agricultural practices.
Despite these concerns, the EU has seen trade agreements with China and the US as a way to compensate for the lack of access to these large markets. The Mercosur deal could provide an alternative route into these key economies, potentially mitigating the impact of EU trade disputes.
The European Parliament is set to debate the negotiating mandate in coming days, paving the way for formal talks on the final shape of the agreement.