On January 11, 2024, COTANCE officially joined forces with key European Union (EU) industries, urging EU authorities to expeditiously conclude and ratify the ground-breaking EU-Mercosur Agreement.
Beyond being a mere trade agreement, this accord holds immense economic, social, and geopolitical significance for the EU. The economic implications include securing access to crucial raw materials crucial for the green and digital transition, fostering the creation of millions of jobs across Europe, and fortifying rural areas. Moreover, it opens up a vast market with 270 million consumers.
For the leather industry, the agreement presents a unique opportunity to strengthen ties with one of the world's largest suppliers of hides, skins, and leather for the EU. Additionally, it provides a chance to support the implementation of the rigorous EUDR standard, set to take effect in just one year.
In essence, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. The EU must act swiftly to capitalize on this opportunity, as it holds the potential to significantly enhance both the economic and social landscape of the region
