Cefic welcomes the conclusion of the EU-Mercosur agreement

The European Chemical Industry Council, Cefic, strongly welcomes the 6 December’s agreement to conclude the decades long negotiations of the EU-Mercosur agreement. The agreement marks a significant milestone in fostering free, fair, sustainable and resilient trade relations between the European Union and the four Mercosur countries Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.

Cefic, along a broad collation of other business associations from both sides of the Atlantic, has been a vocal advocate for the swift conclusion of these negotiations. The EU-Mercosur agreement is expected to boost economic resilience, create jobs, and deliver market access for companies in both regions by eliminating customs duties. It will diversify supply chains, foster investments, and deepen cooperation on sustainability, including climate change.

“The EU-Mercosur Agreement opens tremendous opportunities for both regions. From an EU perspective, it is a crucial opportunity for companies to gain a competitive edge by accessing one of the world’s largest markets. This agreement enhances market access, enabling EU businesses to compete more effectively on the global stage, fostering economic growth and strengthening the EU’s industrial base. This is fully in line with the spirit of the Antwerp Declaration”. We now call upon all EU decision-makers to rapidly ratify and bring the agreement into force”, said Sylvie Lemoine, Cefic Deputy Director General.

Mercosur is the common market of South America that joins the Andean Community, the Caribbean Community and the Central American Integration System. Established in 1991, its members are Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela. Associated states are also Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Colombia and Ecuador.