Leading European business organizations, including EURATEX, have welcomed the signing of the EU–Mercosur Trade Agreement, describing it as a landmark step that reinforces Europe’s commitment to open, rules-based global trade and creates the world’s largest trading bloc.
Representing more than 28 European business associations across multiple sectors, industry leaders said the agreement sends a strong and timely signal at a moment of heightened global uncertainty. They noted that the pact is expected to act as a powerful growth driver for European companies by easing market access, strengthening supply chains and boosting export competitiveness.
The agreement will eliminate tariffs on over 90% of EU exports and open access to a market of more than 270 million consumers across Mercosur countries. European businesses believe this will significantly enhance opportunities to export, invest and diversify supply chains, while improving access to critical raw materials and essential inputs from South America.
According to estimates by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Trade, the deal could add €77.6 billion (around $90.3 billion) to the EU’s GDP by 2040, while driving a 39% increase in EU exports to Mercosur.
With the agreement now signed, European business groups have urged the European Parliament to move swiftly toward ratification. They stressed that rapid approval is crucial to unlocking the economic benefits of the pact and maintaining Europe’s global trade leadership.
After more than 25 years of negotiations, industry leaders said the agreement is finally within reach and warned that further delays could undermine Europe’s economic momentum. They called on policymakers to act decisively so the EU can fully capitalize on the agreement’s potential to drive long-term growth, resilience and prosperity.
