Publication

This paper aims at identifying ways to pursue the EU–Mercosul negotiations leading to a free trade agreement (FTA). After reviewing their already long history, it outlines a basic FTA framework, in goods, services and other themes, judged possible. The author argues that, given the prevailing conditions on both sides, the negotiators should either pursue such a modest, feasible option or terminate negotiations under the FTA heading. The latter, however, does not imply an end to the dialogue. Many actions and measures may be taken – which are easier to discuss and fix – that could pave the way for, in due time, a closer-to-ideal FTA to be considered again.