– in times of uncertainty in international relations and trade flows, The agreement with Mercosure is an opportunity for the European Union and Latin American countries to create the largest economic block in the world, with the possibility of strengthening the production and processing capabilities of all on both continents, for the benefit of the quality of life and development – says Jorge Viana, head of Apexbrasil.
He adds that currently cooperation between the EU-Brazil line is not too deep.
– Over the past two decades, the market share of both Brazil in the EU and the EU in Brazil has decreased. For example, in 2004, Brazil was responsible for 1.9 percent. European imports, while in 2024 it was 1.6 percent. Meanwhile, the Brazilian import of European goods fell even more, from 23 to 18 percent. at the same time. These 5 percentage points can be recovered thanks to the ratification of the contract that will increase business capabilities – he adds.
– Brazil is a large economy – one of the ten most important in the world – and is a key market, especially for European industry. By increasing the export of goods to Brazil, EU countries can stimulate their own economies, creating more jobs and income. This is a mutually favorable relationship, which is very valuable for both sides – he argues.
The expert admits that he understands the distance of Polish farmers about strengthening cooperation with South America. He argues, however, that cooperation may pay off to everyone.
– With the entry into force of the agreement with Mercosur, Poland and other European Union member states will become part of the largest economic block in the world, with possibilities on these internal markets, but in relation to such economies as the United States or China. Thanks to this agreement, Poland would gain a significant space to increase investments in Brazil and strengthen bilateral relations, especially for the benefit of its industrial products. In 2024, our commercial turnover amounted to $ 2.4 billion. About 76 percent Of the USD 1.4 billion exported to Poland were copper ore and soybean shot. Although our import from Poland is very diverse and includes industrial products such as car parts and pharmaceuticals. This shows that Poland is already strongly present on the Brazilian market. There is great potential thanks to the ratification of the contract to expand double -sided trade. Both sides can benefit from it – he argues.
Our interlocutor also adds that he does not fully agree with the theses about “the end of globalization”.
– The fact is, there is a lot of talk about the “end of globalization”, but in my opinion we are witnessing the transformation of this process, not its disappearance. Geopolitical tensions, disruptions in the supply chain and re -emphasis on strategic autonomy were prompted to rethink the way they fit into the global system. Despite this, mutual connections remain a characteristic feature of our time – he says.
Brussels has completed negotiations on the agreement with Mercosuru countries last year. She still didn't come into force. Polish politicians are often her great opponents.
Against the European Union agreement with the Mercosur countries, he told, among others President's candidate Rafał Trzaskowski and indicated that he talked about this subject, among others with the President of France Emmanuel Macron.
