European Union countries have officially agreed to a new trade deal with Mercosur. Mercosur is a group of countries including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. This agreement is important because it took over 25 years to negotiate. It is a big step for the European Commission. It also helps the EU trade more openly in a world where some countries are becoming more protectionist. The European Parliament still needs to approve the deal. Most EU countries voted for it on Friday. This shows they want to improve trade with South America.
The new trade deal is expected to create many business chances. EU exporters could earn an extra €50 billion by 2040. Mercosur economies may also grow by €9 billion. The deal also helps the EU buy important minerals. These minerals are needed for cars and technology. This will make the EU less dependent on China. The negotiations were not easy. There were many difficult discussions and different ideas.
Italy's support was very important for the final decision. Twenty-one EU countries voted for the deal. However, Austria, France, Hungary, Ireland, and Poland voted against it. Belgium did not vote. This shows that some countries still have worries. These worries have been part of the talks for a long time.
After the temporary agreement, farmers in several EU countries protested. They used tractors to block roads in cities. Farmers are worried about cheaper food from South America. They think it will hurt their jobs and lower EU standards. Judy Peeters, a farmer, said, "There is a lot of pain. There is a lot of anger."
EU officials say the deal has protections for European farmers. The European Commission will check imports more carefully. All food coming into the EU must meet high standards for the environment and safety. Brazil's President Lula da Silva said the deal is a positive message against protectionism. The European Parliament will vote soon. The discussion between business needs and farmer protection will continue.