France calls to delay vote on EU-Mercosur trade deal

France is urging the European Union to delay a vote on the EU-Mercosur trade deal, stating that the current conditions are not suitable for an agreement. The announcement, made on December 14, 2025, comes as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to visit Brazil to finalize the trade pact with the Mercosur trade bloc, comprised of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. France is requesting the delay to further develop protective measures for European agriculture. French officials have stated the treaty is unacceptable in its current form, emphasizing the need for robust safeguard clauses before France can approve the agreement. The statement indicates that the conditions for a vote by EU member states have not been met, especially with a Mercosur summit scheduled for December 20.

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