"The EU's approval of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement is long overdue and very good news for Europe as a business location, and especially for Germany as an export nation. The agreement will mutually promote growth, prosperity, and employment, contribute to the diversification of trade relations, and strengthen cooperation on climate protection. At the same time, the EU is sending an important signal to the outside world: By ratifying the agreement, it underscores its credibility as a reliable negotiating partner for international trade agreements.

The EU-Mercosur agreement opens up significant opportunities for the automotive industry. The reduction of previously high tariffs in Mercosur is particularly important. These tariffs currently range from 14 to 18% on automotive parts and up to 35% on passenger cars. At the same time, the EU's tariff reductions create new export opportunities for Mercosur countries and strengthen their economic development.

Germany is an export nation. Approximately 70% of all jobs in our sector are dependent on exports. In 2024, German manufacturers produced around 524,000 passenger cars in Brazil and Argentina. In contrast, exports from Germany to all Mercosur countries amounted to only 25,700 passenger cars during the same period. And in the first half of 2025, German manufacturers produced 289,200 passenger cars in Brazil and Argentina. By comparison, exports from the EU to all Mercosur countries totaled 18,400 new passenger cars during the same period, with 14,600 new passenger cars from Germany alone going to this region. Therefore there is considerable growth potential, which can now be realized through the EU-Mercosur agreement. The share of electric vehicles was around 5% in the first half of 2025. This share will also increase further as a result of the agreement, thus advancing electromobility in South America.

The positive effects of the agreement extend far beyond Germany: The EU-Mercosur agreement brings benefits for the entire European Union. The German automotive industry is closely integrated into European production and supply chains. Therefore, increasing demand from the Mercosur region not only strengthens Germany's position but also promotes production, trade, and employment along the entire European value chain.

In general, Germany and the EU must remain resolute advocates of free, fair, and rules-based global trade. Especially in times of increasing protectionism and geopolitical tensions, it is crucial to seize the momentum and strengthen existing and new alliances for open markets. The EU is therefore called upon to advance trade agreements much more quickly and pragmatically than in the past. After all, economic strength and cooperation are essential for the EU to maintain its role on the global stage."