Mercosur deal will “bring greater certainty” says Doherty

Fine Gael MEP Regina Doherty has welcomed news that the interim EU–Mercosur trade agreement will now be provisionally implemented with the support of the Commission and a majority of Member States in the Council.

The legal review requested by the European Parliament will continue during this time.

Doherty said the news marks “the opening of one of the largest free trade zones ever created at a time when expanding trade and strengthening economic partnerships is more important than ever in the face of threats and tariffs from the White House.”

“After decades of negotiations, this announcement will bring greater certainty. Irish businesses stand to benefit from greater access to Mercosur markets, from pharmaceuticals and manufacturing to services, agri-food and many small and medium sized enterprises across the country,” she said.

“Despite what others will portray, this is standard practice. The Commission is within its rights to provisionally implement the deal, with the support of the Member States in the Council. While the Court of Justice reviews the agreement at the Parliament’s request, it will now come into effect on an interim basis, including with all the additional safeguards in place to protect those with concerns, such as in Ireland. Agriculture is a vital part of our economy and society and rightly deserves these supports,” the Fine Gael MEP stated.

“Ireland has always thrived as an outward-looking trading nation. Trade agreements should be judged on results, and with robust safeguards and high standards firmly in place, this agreement offers real opportunities for growth, jobs and investment in both Ireland and across Europe,” she added.