European Union–Mercosur and European Union–Chile Agreements: Implications for International Trade
LL.M. Faculty Lead Successful Seminar on the European Union–Mercosur and European Union–Chile Agreements
With the attendance of a large group of graduates, students, faculty members, and members of the public, the Seminar on the European Union–Mercosur and European Union–Chile Agreements: Implications for International Trade was held on Tuesday, July 28. The event featured outstanding presentations by LL.M. faculty members,
Prof. Adriana Dreyzin de Klor opened the seminar by explaining that the EU–Mercosur Agreement underwent a lengthy negotiation process and constitutes a trade liberalization instrument that nevertheless provides for a regulated market opening—not only in terms of tariffs, but also through the development of autonomous regulatory decision-making. Her remarks emphasized the need to move toward genuine integration that ensures not only the free movement of goods and services, but also the circulation of rights between the two regional blocs. In this regard, she offered concrete proposals for future developments under the Agreement.
Prof. Jaime Gallegos Zúñiga, in turn, highlighted Chile’s pioneering role in negotiating Regional Trade Agreements and stressed that the renewed Association Agreement should recognize the European Union as Chile’s leading foreign investor—a highly positive outcome marking the silver anniversary of the Chile–European Union partnership. He therefore underscored the importance of the Investment chapter, particularly in light of the growing strategic relevance of energy resources in international markets. He also discussed the regulatory improvements that the updated Agreement may bring, especially regarding the sustainable management of resource extraction in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal.
The seminar concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, during which attendees raised insightful questions and comments on the presentations. A networking coffee followed, providing participants with an opportunity to meet, exchange ideas, and continue the discussion in an informal setting.
