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Italy Backs Mercosur Trade Deal, France Stands Firm

1/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Italy plans to support the Mercosur free-trade agreement, potentially clearing the EU’s final hurdle to seal the deal on January 12, despite more than 25 years of delays.
The deal would create a market of 780 million consumers and phase out tariffs on cars.
France remains opposed, citing inadequate protections for its farmers.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced plans to ban food imports containing EU-prohibited pesticides.

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Story summary

Italy plans to support the Mercosur free-trade agreement, potentially clearing the EU’s final hurdle to seal the deal on January 12, despite more than 25 years of delays.
The deal would create a market of 780 million consumers and phase out tariffs on cars.
France remains opposed, citing inadequate protections for its farmers.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced plans to ban food imports containing EU-prohibited pesticides.