These measures are designed to establish an alert threshold mechanism for certain imports deemed sensitive, including beef, poultry, sugar and ethanol. In the event of a sudden surge in volumes threatening European production, the European Commission will be able to swiftly activate corrective measures, with investigations opened immediately at the request of a Member State and the possibility of implementing provisional measures within 21 days.

For customs and import-export professionals, these safeguard clauses will have a direct impact on the monitoring of trade flows and the management of import formalities. Economic operators will need to closely track import volumes for the affected agricultural products, remain alert to potential warnings, and anticipate any temporary measures that may be activated by EU authorities.

However, concerns remain, particularly in France, which is calling for the introduction of so-called “mirror clauses.” These would ensure that imported products comply with EU environmental standards, including requirements related to pesticide use and animal feed practices. If adopted, such clauses could lead to additional controls for French and European operators, further strengthening customs vigilance and import traceability.

Nevertheless, the adoption of safeguard clauses represents only one step in the legislative pathway of the Mercosur agreement. Differences remain between the versions approved by the European Parliament and the Member States, and interinstitutional negotiations are planned to harmonise the text. The European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, will travel to Brazil for the Mercosur summit to secure the approval of the Twenty-Seven, while the European Parliament’s final vote could take place in 2026, with a majority that will be difficult to secure.

ndeed, Ursula von der Leyen ultimately gave in to requests from France and Italy, postponing the signing of the trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur until January 2026.