Rome, Jan. 10 (LaPresse) – “This is the largest agreement ever negotiated by the Union, a historic moment for the EU, for Italy, and for a significant part of Latin America,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, commenting on the Mercosur agreement in an interview with Sole 24 Ore. Tajani emphasized that the success is the result of close collaboration with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, describing the deal as a major achievement for Italy.
“Robust safeguard clauses and quotas for sensitive products have been included, along with the protection of numerous European Geographical Indications, including 57 Italian ones,” he added. For Italian businesses, the agreement represents a significant opportunity, with an expected 14 billion euros in additional exports at the end of the “adjustment” period. The elimination of tariffs will allow EU exporters to save over 4 billion euros annually, and customs procedures will become simpler.
Furthermore, European companies will have equal opportunities to participate in public tenders within Mercosur. Preferential access will also be provided for critical raw materials and certain ‘green’ products. Tajani highlighted that current tariffs, such as those on car parts (35%) and machinery (20%), will be reduced, boosting trade. The minister reiterated that the EU has always supported free trade with common rules, and that expanding the network of agreements is crucial for Italy’s future, aiming for 700 billion euros in exports by 2027. Tajani also indicated Mexico and India as other strategic areas of interest.