Overview
- Provisional application will remove certain customs duties immediately upon entry into force.
- It will cover Mercosur countries that complete ratification and formally notify the EU by the end of March.
- Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay have notified ratification, and Paraguay has ratified and is expected to notify soon.
- The Court of Justice review initiated by the European Parliament in January is expected to conclude in about 18 months.
- Backers highlight export gains for EU cars, machinery, wines and spirits, while opponents warn of pressure on EU farmers from cheaper South American food imports and uneven standards enforcement.