Cefic, together with 25 business associations representing a broad range of industrial sectors from both the EU and Mercosur, has signed a joint statement calling for the swift ratification of the EU-Mercosur Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The statement, shared ahead of the informal meeting of EU’s trade ministers from 13-14 October 2025, highlights the agreement’s strategic importance for both regions amid growing geopolitical and economic challenges.
Sylvie Lemoine, Deputy Director General Cefic:
In a time of mounting geopolitical uncertainty and industrial strain, the EU-Mercosur Free Trade Agreement is a booster for both regions’ competitiveness. For Europe, it’s a strategic gambit to prop up our manufacturing resilience and a clear signal that the EU remains committed to free, fair, and sustainable trade. In short: It’s a beacon for rules-based trade in these troubled times.
In 2024, trade between the EU and Mercosur exceeded €153 billion, with mutual investments reaching over €380 billion in 2023. By 2040, the agreement is estimated to boost EU exports to Mercosur by 39%, while Mercosur exports should go up by 17%. This agreement will strengthen EU-Mercosur chemical value chains, supporting jobs, innovation, and sustainable growth on both sides of the Atlantic.