17 January 2026 — Joint Statements, News
European business associations celebrate the signature of EU-Mercosur FTA
European business associations, representing more than 28 sectors, welcome the signing of the EU–Mercosur Trade Agreement as a historic milestone that creates the world’s largest trading bloc. The agreement sends a strong signal of the EU’s commitment to open, rules-based global trade and is expected to act as a major growth driver at a time of global uncertainty. By removing tariffs on over 90% of EU exports and opening access to more than 270 million consumers, it will boost exports, investment and supply-chain diversification. According to DG Trade estimates, the agreement could add €77.6 billion to EU GDP by 2040 and increase EU exports to Mercosur by 39%. With the agreement now signed, business calls on the European Parliament to ensure swift ratification and bring more than 25 years of negotiations to a decisive conclusion.