Roundtable: Beyond a simple trade transaction – the EU-Mercosur agreement through a Latin American lens

The impending ratification of the trade agreement extends far beyond commerce. It has the potential to profoundly reshape the relationship between the European Union and Mercosur. Faced with trade distortions, vulnerable supply chains, and the use of trade as a tool of political influence, the EU seeks to reduce dependencies, diversify economic partnerships, and strengthen rules-based alliances.

Do Mercosur countries, however, share this perspective? Which provisions of the agreement are designed to encourage balanced and fair trade relations, reinforce local value chains, and support industrial development? And what can realistically be expected from its implementation – especially regarding its potential to contribute to sustainable development, promote shared values, and protect workers’ rights?

Join our roundtable discussion as we explore these questions with trade experts from Latin America:

• Martín Ford, International Secretary for Regional Integration, PIT-CNT Uruguay (Intersyndical Plenary of Workers - National Convention of Workers)
• Marita González, Member of International Relations Secretary, CGT Argentina (General Confederation of Labour); Coordinator of the Mercosur Economic and Social Consultative Forum from Argentina
• Alexandre Bento, Advisor to the Secretary of International Relations, CUT Brazil (Unified Workers Central); Assistant to the CCSCS General Secretary (Central coordination of trade unions in Mercosur-countries)
• Julieta Zelicovich, Professor and Researcher, National University of Rosario; Associate Researcher, National Council for Scientific and Technical Research, Argentina

Viviana Barreto, Project Director at FES Uruguay, will moderate the discussion. Translation in English and Spanish will be provided. We invite you to join networking drinks and foods after the discussion. 

The registration for this event is now closed. For further information, please contact our Policy Officer for Trade & International Cooperation Daniela Iller Daniela.Iller(at)fes.de.