Archive · 16 Dec 2025
EU Pushes Italy to Back Mercosur Trade Deal
The EU is trying to get Italy to support a big trade deal with Mercosur, which includes countries like Argentina and Brazil.
Germany and other countries think this deal will help them sell more things and not rely so much on China.
But some countries like France and Poland are worried because they think it might bring in too many cheap products, like beef, which could hurt local farmers.
The EU wants to sign the deal soon, but if Italy doesn't agree, it might not happen.
If the deal falls through, Mercosur countries might look for other trade partners.
EU, led by Germany, is lobbying Italy to support a trade deal with Mercosur.
France and Poland are opposed, with France pushing for a delay.
The deal, agreed in principle last December, aims to boost EU exports and reduce dependence on China.
Critics fear the deal could flood the market with cheap commodities, harming European farmers.
The deal is at risk of collapsing if not signed this year, with Mercosur countries considering other trade partners.
- Who
- EU countries (Germany, Spain, Nordic countries), Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay), Italy, France, Poland
- What
- EU pushing Italy to back Mercosur trade deal
- When
- Awaiting signature, potentially this weekend
- Where
- EU and Mercosur countries
- Why
- To help exports hit by U.S. tariffs, reduce dependence on China, provide access to minerals; critics fear impact on European farmers
- Countries Involved
- EU (Germany, Spain, Nordic countries), Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay), Italy, France, Poland
- Trade Deal Status
- Agreed in principle, awaiting signature
- Key Supporters
- Germany, Spain, Nordic countries
- Key Opponents
- Poland, France (pushing for delay), Italy (undecided)
- Potential Signing Time
- This weekend (if approved)
- Potential Collapse Condition
- If not signed this year
- Key Concerns
- Cheap commodities flooding the market, impact on European farmers
- EU Lawmaker's Concern
- Mercosur countries may look towards other countries if deal collapses