EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra has urged European leaders to move forward with the long‑delayed Mercosur trade agreement, calling its approval “imperative” as the bloc enters a decisive phase. His remarks come at a time when the EU is struggling to maintain global competitiveness and strengthen alliances beyond its traditional partners.
The Mercosur deal, negotiated with Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, has been in the works for more than two decades. Supporters argue that finalizing the agreement would give Europe a strategic foothold in Latin America, opening new markets for European exporters and reducing reliance on a small number of global trading partners.
Hoekstra emphasized that the EU cannot afford further hesitation. With other major powers rapidly expanding their trade networks, he warned that Europe risks falling behind if it continues to delay. He framed the deal as part of a broader effort to secure supply chains, diversify trade routes, and reinforce Europe’s economic resilience.
Several EU countries, including Germany and Spain, strongly back the agreement. They argue that Europe needs to deepen ties with emerging economies, especially as geopolitical tensions reshape global trade. For these governments, the Mercosur deal represents an opportunity to strengthen Europe’s influence in a region where China has significantly expanded its presence.
But the proposal remains deeply divisive. France and several other member states are pushing for another delay, citing concerns about environmental protections and the potential impact on European farmers. They argue that the agreement does not go far enough to guarantee sustainable production practices in South America.
Environmental groups have also raised alarms, warning that the deal could undermine Europe’s climate commitments. They fear that increased agricultural exports from Mercosur countries could accelerate deforestation and weaken the EU’s credibility on environmental issues. These concerns have fueled political resistance in several capitals.
Despite the criticism, Hoekstra insists that the agreement includes mechanisms to address environmental risks. He argues that rejecting the deal would not stop deforestation but would instead reduce Europe’s ability to influence environmental standards in the region. According to him, engagement — not isolation — is the more effective path.
Latin American governments have grown increasingly frustrated with the EU’s internal divisions. They say they have already made concessions to meet European demands and warn that further delays could damage trust. For them, the agreement represents a long‑awaited chance to boost exports, attract investment, and strengthen political ties with Europe.
The timing adds pressure. With elections approaching in several EU countries and shifting political dynamics in Latin America, the window for finalizing the deal may be narrowing. Some analysts warn that if the agreement is not approved soon, it could be shelved for years or even collapse entirely.
As the EU prepares for a crucial vote, the bloc faces a defining choice: seize the opportunity to secure a major trade partnership or allow internal disagreements to derail one of its most ambitious international agreements. For Hoekstra, the message is clear — Europe must act now if it wants to remain a serious global player.
