1511 GMT - Bringing the Mercosur free-trade deal into effect will boost European distillers, says Mark Titterington, director-general of industry association SpiritsEUROPE. The EU is provisionally applying the long-awaited trade pact with four South American nations, a move set to boost trade flows between the two blocs. The move will offer new market access for European spirits makers, as well as protecting geographical designations and phasing out costly trade duties, Titterington says in a release. It will also "provide companies with greater options in terms of diversification," he sys. "Most importantly, it reinforces the EU's leadership in promoting open and fair trade." (joshua.kirby@wsj.com; @joshualeokirby)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

February 27, 2026 10:12 ET (15:12 GMT)

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