« Go back EU-Mercosur: Appeal for a Clear Italian Position to Protect Exports
The trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay) has reached a crucial turning point. Member of Parliament Fabio Porta (PD), elected in the South American constituency, recently expressed strong concern over the Italian Government's "uncertainties and ambiguities," which risk compromising the finalization of a deal over twenty-five years in the making.
Opportunities for Italian Businesses
The agreement aims to create one of the world's largest free-trade areas,
involving over 700 million consumers. For Italian companies, this would
translate into an unprecedented competitive advantage: estimates indicate a
potential increase in national exports between 5 and 7 billion euros. The
progressive removal of approximately 90% of customs duties would open new
market opportunities, particularly for the manufacturing, mechanical,
automotive, and service sectors.
B2B and Production Chains
Beyond the exchange of finished goods, the deal would foster the consolidation
of global value chains. Italian companies involved in B2B operations could
benefit from greater integration with South American industrial entities, where
the presence of the Italian-descendant community is historically rooted. This
cultural bond represents a natural accelerator for economic cooperation and
direct investment.
Critical Issues and Protecting "Made in Italy"
Despite strong interest from industrial sectors, reservations remain in the
agricultural field regarding competition and sustainability standards. The
position urged by Porta calls on the Government to ensure rigorous controls on
the quality and safety of imported products, while simultaneously promoting
safeguard clauses to protect Italy’s high-quality consumer goods (B2C) and
environmental sustainability.
International Events and Promotion
In a global context marked by protectionist trends, the ratification of the
agreement would strengthen Italy’s role as a strategic hub for international
trade. The regulatory stability resulting from the treaty would make Italy’s
major industry trade fairs and events—ranging from machinery to design—even
more attractive to South American buyers, facilitating the match between supply
and demand and consolidating the prestige of Italian brands abroad.
According to MP Porta, rapid decision-making and a strategic vision are essential to avoid missing the opportunity to relaunch the national economic system in markets characterized by a growing demand for Italian innovation and quality.