rki.news
BRUSSELS – The European Parliament voted Wednesday to refer the EU-Mercosur trade agreement to the EU Court of Justice for a legal review, a move that could delay its ratification and create uncertainty over its implementation.
The vote passed with 334 lawmakers in favor, 324 against, and 11 abstentions. Lawmakers cited concerns about environmental standards, labor rights, and compliance with EU regulations as key reasons for the review.
The EU and Mercosur officially signed the free trade deal on January 17 in Asuncion, Paraguay. The agreement aims to reduce tariffs, expand market access, and strengthen trade between the two economic blocs.
Before taking effect, the deal requires approval from the European Parliament and ratification by the legislatures of Mercosur member states Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
The referral to the EU Court of Justice is expected to clarify legal questions, potentially affecting the timing and scope of the agreement’s adoption.