EU faces final vote on long-stalled Mercosur trade deal

EU country representatives are expected to vote on a long-delayed trade agreement with Mercosur, potentially clearing the way for a signing in Paraguay next week. France has announced it will vote against the treaty.

The EU is preparing to vote on a long-delayed trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc. Country representatives will meet in Brussels for the expected Friday vote. If approved, the accord could be signed in Paraguay next week, ending more than 25 years of negotiations. The European Commission says the deal is intended to boost exports and strengthen diplomatic and strategic ties amid global uncertainty. Key facts: - The agreement would create a market of more than 700 million people and remove import tariffs on over 90% of products between the EU and Mercosur members. - It would bring the 27-nation EU together with Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Uruguay under the pact. - The EU says the deal would save businesses four billion worth of duties per year and help exports of vehicles, machinery, wine and spirits to Latin America. - Germany, Spain and other member states back the agreement, while France, Poland and Ireland oppose it over concerns for their farmers. - French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed France will vote against the treaty; Brussels appeared short of a formal blocking minority, but the vote could be close. Summary: The vote will determine whether the long-stalled accord advances to formal signature and could widen trade links between the EU and Mercosur while reducing tariffs on most goods. Supporters say it would boost exports and reinforce the EU's strategic position, while opponents warn of pressure on farming sectors. If approved, officials expect the deal to be signed in Paraguay next week.