Summary
The European Parliament voted to send the European Union's trade deal with South America's Mercosur countries to the EU's top court to review if it aligns with EU policies. This decision adds uncertainty to the agreement that would remove many trade barriers between the regions. The Court of Justice of the European Union will decide on the deal's legality, which may take up to two years.
Key Facts
- The EU signed a significant trade agreement with Mercosur after 25 years of talks.
- The European Parliament voted 334 to 324 to refer the deal to the EU's top court.
- The deal would remove tariffs on over 90% of trade between the EU and Mercosur countries.
- Germany and Spain support the deal to mitigate effects from US tariffs and reduce dependence on China.
- France, Poland, and farmer groups oppose the deal, fearing increased competition from cheap imports.
- The deal's legality concerns relate to its impact on EU environmental and consumer health policies.
- The EU Court of Justice could take about two years to make a decision.
- Protests from farmers took place before the European Parliament's vote.
