The Mercosur countries have practically sealed a joint offer for a free-trade agreement with the European Union. The list provides for the elimination of import tariffs levied by the bloc in 87% of the trade volume with the Europeans, level that can reach 90%, according to the Brazilian Minister of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade, Mauro Borges. 

The minister said that some details that are still lacking could raise the offer to 90%. The breakthrough was achieved in the Mercosur meeting held on Wednesday in Montevideo. The final proposal is expected to be completed on the 29th, in another meeting scheduled in the Uruguayan capital among the four members of the bloc. Venezuela does not take part in the negotiations with the EU.