"The European Commission, which concluded negotiations a year ago, and countries such as Germany and Spain argue it is a vital part of an EU push to unlock new markets to offset business lost from U.S. tariffs and to reduce reliance on China by securing access to critical minerals. Opponents led by France, the European Union's largest agricultural producer, say the agreement will jack up imports of cheap food products, including beef, poultry and sugar,"
"EU ambassadors gave provisional approval on Friday to the signing of the bloc's largest ever free trade accord with South American group Mercosur, over 25 years since negotiations began and after months of wrangling to secure key member states' backing, according to three EU diplomats and sources. EU capitals have been given until 5 p.m. Brussels time (1600 GMT) to provide written confirmation of their votes."
EU ambassadors provisionally approved the signing of a free trade accord between the EU and Mercosur after lengthy negotiations spanning over 25 years. The Commission and several member states view the deal as a means to unlock new markets, offset losses from U.S. tariffs, and secure access to critical minerals to reduce reliance on China. France and other opponents warn of increased imports of cheap agricultural products that could undercut domestic farmers, prompting protests across multiple countries. At least 15 member states representing 65% of the EU population indicated support, and capitals must confirm votes in writing by 5 p.m. Brussels time. The accord will still require European Parliament approval and includes proposed safeguards such as import controls and a farmers’ crisis fund.
Read at Irish Independent
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