Ratify Mercosur or risk losing South America to China, Uruguay warns EU
Uruguay urged the European Union to ratify the Mercosur trade agreement, warning that delay could leave the region more exposed to China's influence. The long-negotiated deal has faced resistance within the EU over farming concerns, according to Euronews. EU institutions are continuing the approval process.
Uruguay called for ratification of the free-trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc of South American countries. Officials from the country argued that further delay could affect regional trade balances.
According to Euronews, Uruguay warned that a drawn-out process could push South America toward closer economic ties with China. The agreement has met resistance, particularly in some EU member states, over competition concerns in the farming sector.
Negotiated over many years, the deal remains a significant item on the EU's trade-policy agenda. The timetable for approval and the stance of member states will determine the outcome.
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