In July, Brazil wrapped up internal inter-ministerial discussions regarding its response to the European Union (EU).
Delays in finalizing the response arose due to conflicting interests among various governmental departments.
On the 14th, President Lula approved the document, which was subsequently shared with other Mercosur members: Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
With a nod from all Mercosur nations, the counterproposal is set to be dispatched to the EU this August.
While Brazil currently chairs Mercosur and will spearhead the trade agreement negotiations, Spain is slated to lead the dialogue from the EU’s side.
The trade deal between Mercosur and the EU has been in the works for over two decades. The commercial aspects of the agreement were finalized in 2019.
However, the stipulated terms have not been activated as they await endorsement from countries in both blocs.
The proposed terms allow European firms to compete fairly in public tenders in Brazil, though some products are exempted.
The Brazilian draft addresses environmental concerns raised by the EU. It also calls for a reassessment of clauses related to opening up public tenders in Brazil to foreign nations.
Another highlight of the proposal pertains to “government purchases.”
It emphasizes stronger protection for domestic industries in certain sectors, such as procuring medical supplies for Brazil’s National Health System (SUS).