Between openness and competitiveness: trade prospects for the EU–Mercosur Agreement

The Association Agreement between the European Union and MERCOSUR is entering a decisive phase after 25 years of negotiations. Its implementation could activate one of the most important economic areas on the planet, integrating more than 780 million people and nearly 25% of global GDP.

This report offers a strategic overview of the political moment that will determine its progress, the internal tensions that persist in both blocs, and the benefits that could redefine bi-regional economic dynamism. It also explores the main bottlenecks for the private sector and the trade, regulatory, and investment implications that will shape the new competitive landscape.

It explores how tariff liberalization, expanded market access, investment promotion, and integration into value chains can transform the position of companies and sectors in both regions.

Our new report concludes with a vision of the adaptation challenges that companies will need to address in order to fully capitalize on the new bi-regional framework. It is designed to help readers anticipate changes, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions in a rapidly changing global environment.