UE • MERCOSUR • BUSINESS

Services

Services already represent a major part of the EU-Mercosur relationship. The agreement aims to make the environment more stable, clearer and more usable across several sectors.

EstablishmentLicensingMobility
€41.5bnTotal EU-Mercosur services trade in 2023
€28.6bnEU services exports to Mercosur
€12.9bnEU services imports from Mercosur
€15.7bnEU services surplus in 2023

A more predictable environment

The official services factsheet stresses greater stability and certainty for market access, which matters for firms considering billing, establishment or longer-term investment in the region.

Establishment and market access

EU sources explain that EU suppliers may establish an enterprise in Mercosur and, in many sectors, provide services on the same footing as local and foreign competitors. The deal also seeks to curb certain quantitative restrictions.

Sectors explicitly mentioned

Finance, postal services, telecoms and maritime transport are clearly listed. EU material also emphasises fair and timely licensing and qualification procedures.

Professional mobility and practical caution

Temporary entry is relevant for intra-corporate transferees, graduate trainees, business visitors, sellers of services, contractual suppliers and independent professionals. A consultant posted for six months to Buenos Aires doesn’t have the same status as an employee sent on a permanent basis: the wrong choice often costs in unexpected social contributions or tax.

Official sources