The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has “welcomed” the conclusion of the trade agreement between the European Union (EU) and the Mercosur bloc and is calling for swift ratification by the European Council and Parliament.
In a statement, the European industry body highlights that the agreement will create one of the largest free trade zones in the world, encompassing a combined population of over 750 million people, while simultaneously “promoting sustainable development through enhanced environmental and social commitments.”
ACEA also notes that “amid growing protectionism and geopolitical tensions,” the signing of this agreement sends “a strong signal to the rest of the world in support of free, open, and rules-based trade.”
“The conclusion of this agreement will strengthen the global competitiveness of European automobile manufacturers by eliminating high tariffs and addressing technical barriers to trade for their exports to the Mercosur market,” says ACEA’s Director General, Sigrid de Vries.
She adds that this “positive news” comes at a critical time for the automotive industry, which is currently facing significant challenges in transitioning towards decarbonisation.
The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association welcomes Stellantis
ACEA has welcomed Stellantis back as a member of the association.
On Saturday, the automaker announced its intention to rejoin after leaving the group at the beginning of 2023 due to a personal decision by former CEO Carlos Tavares.
ACEA expressed its appreciation for Stellantis’ request to return, noting that, given the “unprecedented competitiveness crisis” in Europe and the collective need to tackle the challenges of the green transition, remaining “united” is more important than ever.
The association emphasised that while members are competitors in the market, they share the same goal: a competitive and sustainable transition towards zero-emission mobility in a Europe that can maintain its global standing.
In a statement, Europe’s second-largest vehicle manufacturer confirmed its intention to rejoin the table of the trade group representing car, truck, van, and bus manufacturers across the EU since 1991.
“We will continue working on this with all our determination and commitment,” states ACEA President and Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo.
In the summer of 2022, Tavares led a campaign to leave the European association, accusing it of having too little political influence.
Specifically, his criticism centred on ACEA’s inability to prevent the de facto ban on the sale of combustion-engine vehicles from 2035 onwards.
More recently, the Portuguese executive also criticised ACEA’s decision to pressure Brussels to delay the enforcement of fines on manufacturers failing to meet the emissions reduction targets set for 2025 under the “CAFE” regulations.
