The European Union and five Mercosur countries, including Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia, reached a landmark trade agreement after 25 years of negotiations. If ratified, the deal will establish one of the world’s largest free trade zones, encompassing 20% of global GDP. Analysts highlight the strategic importance of lithium and other critical raw materials as key drivers of the agreement, given Europe’s reliance on these materials for renewable energy and electric vehicles. Opposition highlights concerns over agricultural competition, while supporters see the deal as crucial for securing supply chains and promoting sustainable trade.
