Brazil expects the signing of the Mercosur–European Union free trade agreement to accelerate negotiations between Mercosur and other partners. The most advanced talks are with Canada, with Brazilian officials aiming to sign a deal as early as 2026. A Mercosur–Canada agreement is seen as strategically important due to Canada’s role in the USMCA and could open new markets, especially for agricultural and primary products. Improved political ties between President Lula and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have helped advance discussions. The EU deal has also revived prospects for negotiations with the United Kingdom and Japan, which are showing greater interest in closer trade ties with Mercosur. After years of relative isolation, Mercosur appears to be entering a new phase of trade integration, though internal political and ideological differences among member countries could still complicate future agreements.
Source: Valor International / Datamar News
