ERT calls for provisional application of EU-Mercosur
Brussels, 22 January 2026: Yesterday, the Plenary of the European Parliament voted to refer the EU–Mercosur agreement to the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
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Geopolitical pressures on Europe continue to intensify. In the most recent Eurobarometer survey, 83% of citizens polled called on the EU to strengthen its economic independence and diversify trade relations with countries all over the world.
Since this agreement would mark the first significant opening of Mercosur to a major trading partner, the EU would benefit from a first-mover advantage, gaining privileged access to a market of 270 million consumers. It will provide companies in many sectors with improved market access and simplified compliance processes. Additionally, Mercosur offers abundant critical raw materials and renewable energy potential, both of which are essential for Europe’s green and digital transitions.
Provisional application of the agreement should advance as a matter of urgency, as provided for by the EU Treaties and made use of for the implementation of previous agreements.
Recent events confirm speed is of the essence for Europe to adjust to harsh geopolitical realities, accelerate the diversification of its trading relationships with like-minded partners, and seize every opportunity to restore its competitiveness. For this reason, pending the decision of the ECJ , ERT adds its voice to calls for the provisional application of the relevant parts of the Mercosur Agreement, without delay to begin reaping the benefits provided by a golden opportunity to generate the prosperity Europe's unique model depends on.