On September 16, 2025, in Rio de Janeiro, a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed between
MERCOSUR and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprised of Norway, Switzerland,
Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

Once ratified, the agreement will consolidate a market of nearly 300 million people with a combined
GDP exceeding $4.3 trillion, eliminating tariff barriers for more than 97% of reciprocal exports.
Ratification is expected to take place during 2026.

Implications for Argentina and Norway

The treaty has a direct strategic impact on the bilateral commercial relationship:

For Argentina (Exports):

• Preferential Access: EFTA will immediately eliminate tariffs on 100% of Argentine industrial and fishery products.
• Agribusiness: Quotas and preferences are established for key products such as beef and poultry,wines, vegetable oils, honey, and fresh fruits—sectors where Argentina is highly competitive against demanding Norwegian standards.
• Services and Knowledge: It opens opportunities in Knowledge-Based Services (KBS) exports,facilitating investment flows and the protection of intellectual property.

For Norway (Imports and Investments):

• Fisheries Sector: As a world leader, Norway will see a gradual reduction in tariffs for species such as salmon, herring, and mackerel, allowing for greater penetration into the Argentine market.
• Energy and Technology: It facilitates the import of high-tech Norwegian machinery and encourages investment in sectors where Norway is a global benchmark, such as offshore energy, sustainable mining, and maritime logistics.
• Safety and Security Framework: The agreement offers greater legal predictability and modernized customs regulations, reducing operational costs for Norwegian importers.

Reference Document
You may access the technical details and the main aspects of the agreement at the following official link:
https://www.cancilleria.gob.ar/es/politica-exterior/acuerdos-preferenciales-y-de-libre-comercio/tratado-de-libre-comercio-mercosur-efta