To address these concerns, the EU enforces strict import regulations, particularly phytosanitary measures designed to protect plant health and consumer safety.

All imported agri-food products must comply with EU sanitary standards, ensuring a high level of protection.

Additionally, the EU has implemented regulations to combat imported deforestation, banning the placement of products on the market that have contributed to deforestation or forest degradation after December 30, 2020.

Despite these measures, there are calls to further strengthen “mirror clauses,” which would require imported products to adhere to the same production methods demanded of European producers, ensuring fair competition and supporting the ecological transition.

The ratification of the EU-Mercosur agreement still requires approval by the parliaments of EU member states and the European Parliament.

Countries like France have expressed reservations, particularly regarding environmental impacts and the protection of European standards.

Thus, while the agreement represents a significant milestone in trade relations between the EU and Mercosur, its final adoption will depend on the ability to reconcile economic ambitions with the sanitary, environmental, and social requirements of the various stakeholders.