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Mercosur trade pact down to the wire at EU summit

December 18, 2025

Brussels sees the trade deal with the South American regional trading bloc Mercosur as a chance to open new markets. But resistance to the deal from some EU members is massive.

https://p.dw.com/p/55XVs

The EU-Mercosur trade deal could reshape global commerce by eliminating 90% of tariffs, making South American imports, like beef and soy significantly cheaper for European consumers. Critics, however, warn of environmental and economic risks, citing weaker pesticide regulations and threats to the Amazon rainforest, while farmers fear price pressure. Supporters argue the agreement is vital for diversifying trade amid geopolitical uncertainty, even though EU GDP growth from the deal is projected at just 0.05% by 2040.

 

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.