Brazil Scrutinizes U.S.-Argentina Trade Pact

Brazil is reviewing the trade agreement signed between the United States and Argentina due to concerns it may exceed limits set by the South American trade bloc Mercosur. The deal could cover nearly 200 products, surpassing the 150-item exception Argentina received under Mercosur’s common external tariff last year. Brazilian diplomats are examining the pact to determine if it complies with Mercosur rules on tariffs, rules of origin, and technical barriers. The bloc’s next summit is scheduled for late June in Paraguay. Any response from Mercosur is expected to be addressed at the council level.