Šefčovič defends the Mercosur agreement in the face of the censorship motion and reveals a safety net of 6.3 billion euros for farmers

Strasbourg, January 20, 2026 – Fresh from the signing of the EU-Mercosur agreement in Paraguay, European Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič appeared today before the European Parliament to respond to the motion of censure filed against the Commission. In a tense plenary debate, Šefčovič attempted to defuse the opposition by announcing a multi-billion euro financial safety net for the agricultural sector and presenting the trade agreement as a vital shield against global instability.

In brief

Commissioner Šefčovič responded to the motion of censure immediately after returning from the signing ceremony in Paraguay.

He announced a financial package that includes a "Safety Net for Unity" of 6.3 billion euros and access to 45 billion euros in funds to protect farmers from market disruptions.

The Commissioner clarified that no decision has yet been made regarding the "provisional application" of the agreement, trying to calm fears that Parliament could be bypassed.

Šefčovič framed the agreement not just as an economic tool, but as a geopolitical imperative. Citing "the fragmentation of multilateralism" and unjustified threats to territorial integrity, he argued that the EU-Mercosur pact – the largest in the history of the bloc – sends the message that Europe chooses "rules-based trade over force-based trade." The agreement, which connects 700 million consumers, is also presented as a strategic move to secure critical raw materials and fortify the EU industry against tariff threats from across the Atlantic.

Addressing the main concern that generated the motion of censure – the impact on European agriculture – Šefčovič presented an "unprecedented set of additional measures." He revealed that, under the new proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework, the Commission has established a "Safety Net for Unity" of 6.3 billion euros to support farmers in the event of negative market impacts. Furthermore, he stated that member states will have access to approximately 45 billion euros that can be mobilized immediately for rural communities.

Crucially, regarding procedural concerns that the Commission could bypass Parliament, Šefčovič provided specific assurance. "I want to make it clear that no decision has been made regarding provisional application," he said, emphasizing that the focus is now on obtaining Parliament's consent through dialogue. He also highlighted new guarantees, including stricter alignment of production standards for imports, especially regarding pesticides and animal welfare, to ensure fair competition.

https://2eu.brussels/ro/stiri/sefcovic-apara-acordul-mercosur-in-fata-motiunii-de-cenzura-si-dezvaluie-o-plasa-de-siguranta-de-63-miliarde-de-euro-pentru-fermieri