The EU Council approves signature of the EU–Mercosur partnership and interim trade agreements.

On 9 January 2026, the EU Council authorised the signing of two agreements with Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay): the EU–Mercosur Partnership Agreement (EMPA) and the Interim Trade Agreement (iTA). The EMPA establishes a comprehensive framework for political dialogue and cooperation, including a trade and investment pillar. 

While ratifications are completed, the EU intends to provisionally implement significant portions of the political and cooperation chapters.