The trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur has reached a decisive milestone. On March 23, 2026, the European Commission officially confirmed the provisional application of the interim trade agreement as of May 1, 2026.

A Progressive but Strategic Implementation

This provisional application concerns the Mercosur countries that have completed their ratification process. To date, Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay have already notified their approval, while Paraguay is expected to follow shortly.

This step makes certain key measures of the agreement effective without waiting for full ratification by all Member States.

Immediate Opportunities for Businesses

The partial entry into force of this agreement offers concrete benefits:

  • Gradual elimination of customs duties on many products
  • Easier access to the European market for South American exporters
  • More predictable regulatory framework for investments
  • Strengthening of supply chains between the two regions

In parallel, the agreement provides for robust safeguard measures to protect sensitive sectors of the European economy.

A Lever for Strengthened Cooperation

Beyond trade, this agreement strengthens collaboration between the two blocs on major issues such as:

  • Labor rights
  • The ecological and climate transition
  • The securing of strategic raw materials

It thus fits into a logic of sustainable and balanced partnership between Europe and South America.

Development towards the European Union: What are the stakes for Mercosur companies?

For South American companies wishing to expand into the European market, this agreement represents a major opportunity, but also involves numerous obligations:

What ASD Group Can Offer You

In this context of opening up the European market, ASD Group supports Mercosur companies at every stage of their expansion:

Thanks to its regulatory and operational expertise, ASD Group secures your development in Europe and enables you to fully take advantage of the opportunities offered by the EU-Mercosur Agreement.

Source: European Commission – Representation in Spain (in Spanish)

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Noémie Almot
Community Manager & Copywriter

Noémie is a specialised content writer at ASD Group. She creates and manages blog articles as well as news updates on our websites, with a focus on VAT, international taxes, customs operations, social regulations, and international trade. With her clear and educational writing style, she makes complex and technical topics easily understandable and relevant for businesses.