Trump Considers Free Trade Agreement with Argentina, Supporting Milei’s Leadership
U.S. President Donald Trump is considering a Free Trade Agreement with Argentina, acknowledging President Javier Milei as a strong leader, while Envoy Mauricio Claver-Carone previously dismissed the idea. Milei, advocating for trade flexibility within Mercosur, aims to boost exports and U.S. investment, positioning himself for negotiations that could redefine Argentina’s economic landscape.
Recently, United States President Donald Trump expressed a willingness to explore a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Argentina, despite prior comments from US Special Envoy for Latin America Mauricio Claver-Carone, who indicated that the US was not interested in such an arrangement. Trump lauded Argentine President Javier Milei as “a great leader” during a press conference held at the White House after attending the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC).
Milei’s administration is considering adjustments to Argentina’s Mercosur membership to facilitate trade discussions with the US. He emphasizes the importance of enhancing exports, attracting US investments, and eventually gaining access to technology transfers through such an agreement. Conversely, prevailing Mercosur regulations necessitate that member states negotiate trade deals collectively. Milei has indicated a preference for a trade accord with the US over adherence to Mercosur guidelines.
In his speech to the Legislative Assembly on March 1, Milei asserted Argentina’s objective to establish a free trade agreement with the United States, referring to a similar arrangement that should have emerged two decades ago. He lamented about the potential growth Argentina could have experienced by partnering with the world’s foremost economy. Milei remarked, “If we were not restricted by Mercosur, Argentina would be working on a free trade agreement with the United States.”
President Trump echoed these sentiments by stating, “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.” In terms of trade, the latest figures indicate that Argentine exports to the United States were valued at $6.454 billion last year, compared to $6.226 billion in imports, resulting in a minimal trade surplus of $228 million.
In summary, President Trump has expressed openness to a Free Trade Agreement with Argentina, highlighting President Javier Milei’s leadership. The discussions are complicated by Mercosur’s regulations, which require joint negotiations for trade deals. Milei seeks to prioritize establishing direct trade relations with the US, emphasizing potential economic growth opportunities that have been previously overlooked. This evolving situation reflects the complex dynamics of Argentina’s foreign trade policies.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
