Near-zero tariffs and wider access to global markets
Romania’s Economy Minister, Irineu Darău, said the country backed the trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur after firm negotiations, stressing that the deal will help increase Romanian exports, according to Mediafax.
In a Facebook post, Darău said Romania needs new export markets and fair trade rules for its producers.
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“The EU–MERCOSUR agreement will lead to an increase in Romania’s exports. Beyond the hypocrisy of politicians promoting isolation, Romania needs new export markets and fair rules for its producers,” the minister wrote.
He added that Romania supported the agreement only after securing clear safeguards for industry and agriculture.
“The Romanian state backed this deal following tough negotiations that delivered clear guarantees for industry and agriculture. The result? Near-zero customs duties for Romanian products, higher exports and access to cheaper raw materials, increased production and new jobs in the automotive, mechanical and electrical industries,” Darău said.
According to the minister, Romanian companies stand to benefit directly. In 2023 alone, Romanian firms paid more than €47 million in customs duties on industrial exports to Mercosur countries. Once the agreement enters into force, these tariffs are expected to be almost entirely eliminated.
Darău also emphasized that agriculture remains protected.
“Agriculture is protected, and Romania achieved this through persistence and negotiation: sensitive imports are strictly limited, EU standards remain mandatory, and 15 Romanian products with geographical indications will be protected on Mercosur markets,” he said, adding that “isolation does not protect Romania.”
Photo: freepik.com
