U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated he would consider signing a Free Trade Agreement with Argentina, following positive remarks about President Javier Milei. Milei is advocating for more flexibility in Argentina’s Mercosur membership to facilitate trade with the U.S. He noted that a direct agreement has been long overdue, citing potential economic benefits.
During a recent press conference at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed a willingness to consider signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Argentina, despite earlier remarks from U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America, Mauricio Claver-Carone, indicating a lack of interest in such an agreement. Trump praised Argentine President Javier Milei as “a great leader” and acknowledged potential benefits from a trade arrangement that could boost exports and investment in Argentina.
President Milei has proposed flexibility regarding Argentina’s commitment to Mercosur, or possibly exiting the trade bloc to forge a direct agreement with the United States. He believes this change would enable Argentina to engage more effectively in the global market, stating that achieving a trade accord with the U.S. is a priority and emphasizing its potential advantages for Argentina’s growth.
In his address to the Legislative Assembly, Milei highlighted how Mercosur primarily favors Brazil’s industries at the expense of other member nations. He asserted the historical significance of a FTA with the U.S., lamenting lost opportunities since such discussions were initially warranted nearly two decades ago. According to Milei, unrestricted by Mercosur, Argentina would already be negotiating an FTA with the U.S.
Trump stated, “I would consider anything. I think he is a great leader. He is doing a great job, he is doing a fantastic job. He resurrected the country from oblivion,” while acknowledging the importance of trade relations. In 2022, Argentine exports to the U.S. were valued at approximately $6.454 billion, while imports reached $6.226 billion, resulting in a modest trade surplus of $228 million.
In conclusion, President Trump’s openness to exploring a Free Trade Agreement with Argentina marks a significant shift in U.S.-Argentina relations. President Milei’s strategies to reform trade relations could lead to economic revitalization for Argentina, focusing on reducing dependence on Mercosur and enhancing ties with the U.S. Both leaders share a vision that underscores the value of direct trade engagement between their nations.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
