To block the deal, France needs the backing of three additional countries that represent over 35% of the EU population, a goal that could be met with Italy and Poland's opposition.

According to sources from Premier Giorgia Meloni's office, Italy insists on enhanced protections for European farmers before signing the trade deal.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is currently in Montevideo, Uruguay, for discussions with Mercosur leaders, including those from Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

While deepening relations with Mercosur is a strategic priority for both Italy and the EU, the current conditions for the agreement are considered inadequate.

The Italian government has made it clear that it will not approve the EU-Mercosur Association Agreement without sufficient safeguards and compensation for its agricultural sector.

These discussions aim to advance the trade deal that has been under negotiation for over two decades.

Italy's opposition, combined with France's stance and Belgium's abstention, could create a blocking minority against the agreement within the EU Council, complicating its ratification.

France has echoed Italy's concerns, with President Emmanuel Macron labeling the current agreement as 'unacceptable' due to insufficient protections for farmers.

Rome is demanding strict adherence to EU standards for veterinary and phytosanitary controls for products entering the EU market.

Any potential approval from Italy would require a commitment from the European Commission to monitor market disruptions and activate a rapid compensation system if necessary.

The Italian government is experiencing internal divisions, with Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida opposing the agreement while Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani supports it.

Under EU treaties, the European Commission negotiates trade agreements on behalf of all member states, requiring ratification from at least 15 member states representing 65% of the EU's population.