EU-Mercosur Trade Deal Delayed as France, Italy Demand Farm Protections

The signing of a major trade agreement between the European Union and South America has been postponed. EU leaders were told the deal will not be finalized until January. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the delay at a summit in Brussels. The EU had aimed to sign the pact with the Mercosur bloc this week. The plan was disrupted after Italy joined France in demanding a postponement. Both countries are seeking stronger protections for their agricultural sectors. They argue that European farmers need more safeguards from competition. The agreement aims to create the world's largest free-trade area. Mercosur members include Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.