Latin America – Caribbean: A constructive dialogue on EU trade rules

On 4 July, the COLEAD Regulations & Standards team took part in a unique event within the framework of the AGRINFO programme: a breakfast with the embassies of Latin America and the Caribbean, hosted at the official residence of the Argentine Ambassador in Brussels.

In a friendly and open atmosphere, discussions focused on crucial issues for agri-food value chains, including:

• The European Green Deal and its impact on trade,
• regulations on pesticides and organic farming,
• phytosanitary rules, and e-certification.

Several key points were discussed during the dialogue, including the importance of early participation in EU consultations, the decisive role of Member States in implementing controls, and concerns about the future of import tolerances. Representatives of third countries emphasised the importance of remaining fully engaged in EU expert consultations in order to anticipate and adapt to regulatory changes.

Fourteen embassies were present: Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay.

This event demonstrates the value of AGRINFO in facilitating communication with EU trading partners to foster transparent, equitable, and sustainable agri-food trade.

This activity is supported by the AGRINFO programme, implemented by COLEAD and funded by the European Union (EU). This publication receives financial support from the European Union. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union.