EU states back controversial Mercosur deal with Latin American countries

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Lisa O’CarrollJanuary 9, 2026 at 04:22 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

EU member states have approved a free trade agreement with the Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay) after 25 years of negotiations. The deal aims to strengthen economic ties with Latin America and diversify supply chains for critical minerals, reducing reliance on China. The agreement faced opposition from farmers in countries like Poland and France, who protested potential negative impacts. While some countries like France and Poland voted against the deal, Italy's support allowed it to pass under qualified majority voting. The European Parliament must still approve the agreement before it can take effect, with the EU Commission President expected to sign it soon.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Donald Trump 40% Poland ×250% Paraguay ×250% Uruguay 50% Italy ×250% Brazil ×360% France ×360% Ursula von der Leyen 60% Argentina ×260% China ×470% Mercosur ×585% European Union ×590%

Keywords

eu-mercosur deal 100% free trade agreement 90% european union 80% latin america 70% trade tensions 60% rare earths 50% critical minerals 50% economic cooperation 40% china 40%