Brazilian Foreign Minister Expects two New Mercosur Trade Agreements in 2019

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Foreign Minister Ernesto Araújo said on Tuesday, July 2nd, that he expects two further trade agreements to be signed between Mercosur and other countries in the second half of 2019, announcing a new era of openness for the country.

Mercosur is in advanced negotiations with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), Canada, Singapore, and South Korea, said Pedro Miguel da Costa e Silva, the foreign ministry’s chief trade negotiator for the Americas, speaking alongside Araújo.

“I think we are very close to concluding negotiations with EFTA. I think we can close with Canada too in the coming months. We’re working hard with Singapore. Advancing quickly with Korea,” said da Costa e Silva.

Araújo said the deal on the free trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur last week marked the beginning of an era of “Greater Brazil” in which the nation will be more open, prosperous and competitive.

Brazil will work to secure further trade agreements during the period in which it occupies the rotating presidency of Mercosul, starting at the end of this month, he said.

For the full picture, see our Mercosur EU Trade Deal: Complete Guide.

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