Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

France Pushes EU to Delay Mercosur Trade Vote

12/15/2025

39 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

France urges the EU to delay a Mercosur trade vote, citing inadequate protections for European agriculture.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu says conditions are not met and safeguards must be strengthened.
The EU is Mercosur's second-largest trading partner with investments and a potential 722 million-person market if approved.
EU plans to ban new petrol and diesel cars by 2035 may be postponed as industry leaders warn on EV production.

History

Historical Context

The EU-Mercosur trade agreement, reached in 2019 after two decades of negotiations, aims to eliminate 93% of tariffs, enhancing trade between 780 million people. However, concerns over environmental impacts, particularly regarding Amazon deforestation under Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, have led to calls for stricter safeguards. France's push for a delay reflects ongoing tensions that could reshape future EU-Mercosur relations.

1 of 2

Story summary

France urges the EU to delay a Mercosur trade vote, citing inadequate protections for European agriculture.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu says conditions are not met and safeguards must be strengthened.
The EU is Mercosur's second-largest trading partner with investments and a potential 722 million-person market if approved.
EU plans to ban new petrol and diesel cars by 2035 may be postponed as industry leaders warn on EV production.

1 / 2