In a decisive step for the external trade agenda, the European Union officially announced this Wednesday (15.04.2026), through its publication in the Official Gazette, the provisional application of the Interim Trade Agreement with MERCOSUR.
In accordance with the provisions of Article 23.3 of the Agreement, The effective implementation will begin next 1 May 2026.
It should be recalled that on March 23, 2026, the European Union notified the MERCOSUR countries of the provisional implementation instrument of the EU-Mercosur Provisional Trade Agreement (ACPP) and, through the sending a diplomatic note to Paraguay —the legal custodian of the bloc's treaties—, completed the last required procedural step, in accordance with the Council Decision of 9 January 2026.
The Interim Trade Agreement with MERCOSUR will be applied provisionally from May 1st between the European Union and those countries of the South American bloc that have completed their ratification procedures and notified the EU. Before the March 31. That group includes Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
Ratification of the agreement in MERCOSUR
In Argentina, the ratification was finalized on February 26, 2026 through Law 27.800 and Decree 111/2026, with its corresponding promulgation.
In Uruguay, the process ended on February 26, 2026 with Law No. 20.462/2026.
Brazil completed its ratification on March 17, 2026 through Legislative Decree 14/2026 (PDL 41/26), with subsequent validation by the Executive Branch.
For its part, Paraguay concluded the procedure on March 30, 2026, with the legislative approval and enactment of Law No. 7634/2026, followed by its promulgation.
Thus, once this official European Union procedure is completed, it is possible to harmonize provisions with the MERCOSUR Member States and advance in facilitating trade between both regions.
Aduana News is the first Argentine customs newspaper to launch its digital version. With 20 years of experience, its publications and initiatives aim to provide the most relevant knowledge on customs issues in order to contribute to safe trade in the region.
