Mercosur GMC meeting concluded with new initiatives to strengthen integration and regional trade - .::Agencia IP::.

The Mercosur Common Market Group (GMC) concluded its 130th Ordinary Meeting last night in Asunción under Paraguay's pro tempore Presidency. Over two days, several significant topics were highlighted on the regional bloc's agenda. Also, new initiatives were introduced to bolster integration and regional commerce.

Asunción, Agencia IP.- The Mercosur Common Market Group (GMC) concluded its 130th Ordinary Meeting last night in Asunción under Paraguay’s pro tempore Presidency. Over two days, several significant topics were highlighted on the regional bloc’s agenda. Also, new initiatives were introduced to bolster integration and regional commerce.

A directive project was presented aiming to establish an Ad Hoc Committee on Intrazonal Restrictions Elimination. The objective is to identify levies, non-tariff restrictions, or equivalent measures that hinder access of goods and services to Member States’ markets.

A proposal was developed for the creation of a permanent instance within Mercosur to coordinate policies, programs, and actions related to women’s participation in trade.

Regarding the Structural Convergence Fund of Mercosur (FOCEM), there was an expressed need to progress in incorporating Decision CMC No. 22/15, and the strategic relevance of FOCEM as a tool to reduce asymmetries and strengthen the integration process was reiterated.