Overview
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said signing in the coming days is premature as Italy seeks additional guarantees and reciprocity on agricultural protections.
- The European Parliament approved tougher safeguard rules by 431–161–70, lowering the trigger to a 5% average import rise over three years, shortening investigations, and adding a reciprocity probe mechanism.
- Trilogue talks between Parliament and the Council start on 17 December to finalize the safeguard regulation that would accompany the trade pact.
- France has formally requested a postponement, and with Italy’s alignment plus opposition from Poland and Hungary, and potential support from Austria and Ireland, a blocking minority is likely.
- The European Commission had expected a year‑end signature, but the planned 20 December ceremony in Brazil is now in doubt because Ursula von der Leyen needs member‑state authorization to travel, as farmer groups intensify pressure and industry bodies urge approval.