Dialogos

Cyprus Faces 'Done Deal' on MERCOSUR Agreement as Government Fails to Discuss

Published January 15, 2026, 09:01
Cyprus Faces 'Done Deal' on MERCOSUR Agreement as Government Fails to Discuss

DIKO MP Christos Orphanides accuses the government of leading to a 'done deal' regarding the MERCOSUR agreement, as it failed to discuss the matter. He expresses concerns about the removal of tariffs on products from Latin American countries, which could harm Cypriot products such as honey and fruit. He also points out that MERCOSUR countries use pesticides banned in the EU, creating unfair competition for Cypriot producers. Mr. Orphanides argues that Germany is behind the promotion of the agreement, as it seeks to export agricultural machinery to MERCOSUR countries and is expected to promote similar agreements with India. Finally, he criticizes the absence of DISY MPs from yesterday's session of the parliamentary agriculture committee.