Italy seeks safeguards before backing Mercosur deal

Meeting in Rome

At the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests in Rome, Minister Francesco Lollobrigida met with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič to discuss the EU-Mercosur agreement. The meeting reaffirmed Italy’s cautious support, dependent on firm safeguards for farmers and reciprocity in trade standards.

Italy’s stance

Rome is not rejecting the EU-Mercosur trade deal but is seeking stronger safety nets to protect vulnerable agricultural sectors. Lollobrigida emphasized that Italy’s measured approach is shaping current negotiations on compensation and safeguard mechanisms.

“We’ve never taken a prejudicial stance against the deal,” Lollobrigida said, “but no one should be left behind.”

Context of the agreement

The EU-Mercosur pact aims to link Europe with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Progress has been delayed over environmental, agricultural, and competitiveness concerns. Italy’s cautious position has slowed the deal’s approval but encouraged Brussels to create new tools to protect farmers.

EU perspective

Šefčovič reportedly recognized Italy’s concerns as valid within the broader EU debate. Italy’s position now appears less oppositional and more conditional, using its support as leverage to secure sector-based guarantees before finalizing the agreement.

Conclusion

Italy is not rejecting the Mercosur deal — it is saying “not yet,” pending stronger assurances for its agricultural sector.

Author’s summary

Italy maintains cautious support for the EU-Mercosur deal, demanding concrete safeguards and fair standards before giving its full approval.

Decode39 — 2025-11-01