The EU-Mexico Agreement, signed but pending ratification, will liberalize 99% of trade

Fepex analysis

The European Union and Mexico signed their Modernized Global Agreement on May 22, which will liberalize almost all trade. However, its entry into force depends on a complex parliamentary ratification process, although the early implementation of its trade clauses is anticipated.

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The new Modernized Global Agreement between Unión Europea y MéxicoThe agreement, signed on May 22, 2026, marks a milestone in bilateral trade relations by envisioning the liberalization of up to 99% of goods trade. However, its full implementation is contingent upon a complex ratification process that could be delayed, although its trade provisions could be applied on an interim basis to expedite benefits for exporting and importing companies.

This agreement, whose technical negotiations concluded on January 17, 2025, represents a crucial update to the existing trade framework. According to the information notes of the Comisión EuropeaThe agreement will have a special impact on the agri-food sector, an area of ​​great interest to Spanish companies.

A complex path to ratification

The legal architecture of the agreement is key to understanding its implementation timeline. It comprises two distinct instruments: the Modernised Global Agreement (MGA) and the Interim Trade Agreement (ICA)This duality conditions the approval procedures and, therefore, the entry into force dates.

The AGM, of a mixed nature, covers not only the economic and trade pillar, but also the areas of cooperation and political dialogue. Therefore, it requires a longer ratification process: it must be approved by the Parlamento Europeo and subsequently ratified by the national parliaments of the 27 Member States. For its part, México He must submit it for approval by his Senate.

In parallel, the ACI, which is limited exclusively to the competencies of the Unión Europea In commercial matters, it may come into force early. It only needs the approval of Parlamento Europeo and the ConsejoThis would allow companies to benefit from tariff reductions well before the full ratification of the main agreement.

Spanish-Mexican fruit and vegetable trade balance in 2025

While progress is being made on the institutional level, the flow of trade between España y México In the fruit and vegetable sector, this is already painting an interesting picture. According to data from Departamento de Aduanas e Impuestos Especiales, processed by the Spanish Federation of Associations of Producers and Exporters of Fruits and Vegetables (FEPEX), the trade balance in 2025 was in deficit for España in this sector.

Spanish exports of fruit and vegetables to México They reached the 3.154 tonnes for a value of 5,7 millones de eurosPlums emerged as the star product, accounting for 3.002 tons and €5,1 million of the total. Conversely, imports from México rose to 14.041 tonnes , valued at 41,2 millones de euroswith products such as onions, avocados and asparagus leading Spanish purchases.

Fruit and Vegetable Trade Spain-Mexico (2025)

Trade Flow	Main product	Volume (Tons)	Value (Millions of €)
Spanish exports to Mexico	Plum	3.154 (Total) / 3.002 (Plum)	5,7 (Total) / 5,1 (Plum)
Spanish imports from Mexico	Onion, Avocado, Asparagus	14.041 (Total)	41,2 (Total)

Impact and tariff liberalization

The main attraction of the agreement for foreign trade operators is the drastic reduction of barriers. México commits to eliminating tariffs for approximately 95% of European agricultural products. For its part, Unión Europea will offer duty-free access to more than 80% of Mexican agri-food productswhile the remaining percentage will benefit from phased tax reduction schedules. This liberalization opens new opportunities to diversify markets and optimize supply chains.

Key points and frequently asked questions about the EU-Mexico Agreement

When will the agreement come into effect and how will it affect my company?

The commercial part of the agreement, through the Interim Trade Agreement (ITA), could come into force early once it is approved by Parlamento Europeo and the ConsejoThis would allow your company to benefit from tariff reductions before full ratification, which will take longer. It is crucial to monitor official communications from the Comisión Europea.

What specific opportunities does it present for the Spanish agri-food sector?

The agreement is a great opportunity. México It will eliminate tariffs on 95% of EU agricultural products. For a Spanish exporter, this means more competitive access for products such as wine, dairy, meat products, and fruits like plums, which already have a strong presence. The key will be competing in a market with fewer tariff barriers.

What does the dual structure of the agreement (AGM and ACI) mean for Spanish exporters?

This means that trade benefits, such as tariff elimination, will come before the benefits derived from cooperation or policy pillars. Exporters should focus on the Interim Trade Agreement (ICA), as it will be the first to be implemented and will govern market access to Mexico in the short and medium term, facilitating import and export operations.