Mercosur trade pact draws EU scrutiny as leaders seek assurances

The European Commission will meet national agriculture ministers in Brussels to address member states' concerns about a long‑standing Mercosur trade agreement, including future farm funding and import controls; Italy signalled possible support after a proposed acceleration of 45 billion euros for farmers, while Poland, Hungary and France remain opposed.

The European Commission will meet national agriculture ministers in Brussels on Wednesday to try to ease concerns among EU members about a planned free trade agreement with the South American bloc Mercosur. The deal has been negotiated for 25 years and could be signed as soon as next week if authorised. Commissioners for agriculture, trade and health are due to discuss future Common Agricultural Policy funding for farmers and a review of import controls, including maximum pesticide residue levels. The Commission still needs a qualified majority of member states to authorise signing and must obtain approval from the European Parliament. Key facts: - Proponents say the pact would be the EU's largest in tariff reductions and could support exports affected by U.S. import taxes and access to critical minerals. - Italy and France prevented a planned December signing because of farmers' fears about an influx of cheaper commodities such as beef and sugar. - The Commission appeared to secure Italy's tentative support after proposing to accelerate 45 billion euros of support for farmers. - Poland and Hungary remain opposed, and France has said it will continue to oppose the deal in the European Parliament. - Ireland has suggested it could back the pact, with Prime Minister Micheal Martin calling for safeguards against potential surges of imports. Summary: If authorised by member states and approved by the European Parliament, the agreement would alter tariff arrangements and is presented by proponents as supporting exports and access to critical minerals. Undetermined at this time.