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Von der Leyen: 'Trade is as Important as Ever'

Published January 21, 2026, 10:39

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the importance of trade, describing it as more important than ever, during a speech to the plenary session of the European Parliament. Her speech coincided with the expected vote on referring the EU-Mercosur agreements to the Court of Justice of the EU to examine their compatibility with the Treaties. Meanwhile, farmers' protests continue in Strasbourg, demonstrating against the agreements. Von der Leyen stated that intra-community trade accounts for 55% of the EU's GDP, while external trade accounts for 45%, and assured the existence of safeguards for sensitive agri-food sectors.