Mercosur Agreement: European parliament refers case to EU court of justice
The European Parliament has voted to refer the Mercosur trade agreement to the Court of Justice of the European Union, seeking a legal assessment of its compatibility with EU law. The motion was adopted by a narrow margin, reflecting deep divisions among lawmakers over the future of the controversial deal.
The agreement, negotiated between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc—Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay—aims to create one of the world’s largest free trade areas, covering more than 700 million consumers. Supporters argue it would boost European exports, particularly in the automotive, industrial, and agri-food sectors, while strengthening ties with Latin America.
However, critics warn that the deal could harm European farmers by increasing imports of agricultural products produced under different environmental and social standards. Agricultural unions and several member states have voiced strong concerns, arguing that the agreement threatens food sovereignty and undermines local producers.
France welcomed the Parliament’s decision, describing it as consistent with its longstanding opposition to the agreement in its current form. French officials reiterated their commitment to protecting national agriculture and ensuring fair competition within the European market.
While the referral to the Court temporarily delays the agreement’s entry into force, the European Commission retains the option of applying parts of the treaty on a provisional basis. The legal review could take months, prolonging uncertainty around a trade deal that remains one of the most debated issues on the EU’s political agenda.
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