Italy’s reluctance to declare its position on the EU–Mercosur trade agreement is emerging as a decisive factor as the bloc edges closer to a final vote. With France leading opposition to the pact over fears of unfair competition for European farmers, Rome’s silence is unsettling both supporters and critics of the deal.
The agreement with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay would create a free-trade area spanning 700 million people, but requires a qualified majority to pass. A small group of countries could still form a blocking minority, making Italy’s stance pivotal. While France, Hungary, Poland and Austria oppose the deal, others remain undecided, leaving Rome in a potential kingmaker role.
Italy is torn between protecting its farming sector, strongly represented by Coldiretti, and safeguarding export interests. As the EU’s second-largest exporter to Mercosur countries, Italy’s industrial lobby and parts of its agri-food sector, including wine and cheese producers, stand to gain from the agreement. The European Commission has proposed safeguard measures to limit market disruption, but farmers argue these would be too slow to take effect.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government has so far opted for ambiguity, seeking concessions while avoiding a clear commitment. As Commission President Ursula von der Leyen prepares to travel to Brazil to sign the deal, pressure on Italy is mounting. For now, Rome’s silence continues to cast doubt over the pact’s fate.
via Euronews
