Grofor e.V. welcomes the recent agreement on bilateral safeguard measures for sensitive agricultural products in the EU–Mercosur agreement as a decisive milestone. Ahead of tomorrow’s vote by the EU ambassadors (Coreper) and the summit in Paraguay on January 12, the association calls for swift adoption: the agreement creates fair competitive conditions without endangering our farmers – the indispensable partners of trade.
Robust Safeguard Mechanisms for EU Producers
The final provisions provide precise protection for sensitive goods such as corn, sorghum, rice, starches, ethanol, and biodiesel: automatic triggers at +8% import volume or -8% prices (vs. the 3-year average), extended 6-month monitoring by the Commission, as well as provisional measures for up to 200 days. In the event of proven damage, a temporary suspension of tariff preferences or a return to the MFN rate may follow — a smart toolkit against “flooding” of the internal market that prioritizes EU farmers and ensures transparency.
Trade Connects: Europe Needs This Market
After 25 years of negotiations, Mercosur could create real trade bridges – stable imports from Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay would diversify EU supply chains, while European specialties in particular could be supplied to the Mercosur market. This mutual exchange strengthens the entire value chain, positions Europe as a reliable partner, and secures long-term competitive advantages. “Grofor calls for action now to avoid losing key export markets,” emphasizes Managing Director Stephanie Kröger.
Geopolitical Turning Point: China Won’t Wait – The EU Must Secure Alliances!
Experts are already warning: any delay will open further doors in Latin America for China, which is already Mercosur’s largest partner for raw materials such as lithium and soy. The EU therefore risks strategic isolation – in contrast, Mercosur would be an important step toward greater independence. Grofor e.V. therefore urgently appeals: secure a qualified majority tomorrow in Coreper, use today’s meeting of the agriculture ministers, and sign the agreement.
German Association of the Wholesale Trade in Oils, Fats and Oil Raw Materials (Grofor)
Grofor was founded in Hamburg in 1916 by 25 entrepreneurs involved in the trade of edible lard and fats, fish oil, technical fats for the soap and candle industry, as well as vegetable oils. Grofor represents agricultural trading companies across Germany that trade in fats, oils, and oil raw materials. Through their activities, these companies stand for progress in the industry, free international trade, and open dialogue with third countries.
