Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Wednesday that Italy will not approve the EU–Mercosur trade agreement without firm safeguards for farmers.
Speaking in the Lower House before this week’s European summit, Meloni said signing the deal soon would be premature. he said Italy wants additional measures finalised to protect the agricultural sector. The government also wants talks with farmers before any approval.
“It does not mean that Italy intends to block or oppose it,” Meloni said. “But we will approve it only with adequate reciprocity guarantees.” She said she was confident these conditions could be met early next year.
What is the EU-Mercosur agreement?
The EU–Mercosur agreement aims to create one of the world’s largest free trade areas. It would cover the EU and the Mercosur bloc of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay.
Negotiators reached a political agreement in principle in 2019. However, ratification has stalled due to concerns from several EU states.
The deal would cut tariffs on cars, machinery and chemicals exported to South America. In return, it would expand access for Mercosur agricultural products to EU markets.
European farmers fear unfair competition from imports produced under lower environmental and animal welfare standards. Beef, poultry, sugar and soy are among the most sensitive sectors.
Italy has repeatedly called for strict safeguards, including quotas and enforceable standards. Rome wants guarantees that EU farmers face equal rules and protections.
Criticism of EU budget plan
Meloni also criticised the European Commission’s proposed long-term EU budget for 2028–2034. She said the draft plan would increase Italy’s contributions while cutting funds for key policies.
“The proposal reduces resources for the Common Agricultural Policy and cohesion funds,” she said. “I’ll say this bluntly: we won’t accept paying more to obtain less.”
The budget and the Mercosur agreement will both feature in discussions at the EU summit.
