Lula: 'Brazil assumes the presidency of Mercosur at a time of serious turbulence. The support of South America is essential.'
The president cited the agreement with the European Union and COP 30 as some of the main issues to be addressed by Brazil in managing the South American bloc.
247 - President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva highlighted this Thursday (3) the importance of the Brazilian presidency in Mercosur and stated that one of his commitments is “to conclude the Mercosur-European Union agreement in the next six months”.
"The next semester will be a period of much work. Brazil has taken on the responsibility of hosting COP 30 at a time of serious turbulence for multilateralism. The support of Mercosur and all of South America will be essential," Lula added on Instagram.
Mercosur is made up of four countries - Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. In 2015, Bolivia had its Accession Protocol signed by all the Member States of the bloc. In July 2024, the country submitted the Instrument of Ratification and has a period of up to 4 years to join the alliance.
Argentine President Javier Milei handed over the presidency of the bloc to Brazil. According to current rules, there is a six-month rotation in the management of Mercosur.
Trade between Mercosur countries totaled US$17,5 billion from January to May 2025. Brazilian exports reached US$10,2 billion and imports US$7,2 billion, resulting in a surplus of US$3 billion.
Brazil's import portfolio is largely based on motor vehicles for transporting goods and passengers, unmilled wheat and rye, and electricity. Brazil exports mainly passenger and goods vehicles, manufactured goods, and iron ore to Mercosur.
The Lula government stated that the Brazilian presidency of the bloc will have five main focuses:
- Strengthening trade between countries within the bloc and with external partners.
- Addressing climate change and promoting the energy transition.
- Technological development
- Fighting organized crime
- Promoting the rights of Mercosur citizens
