The president of Argentina, Javier Milei, expressed his desire to reach a free trade agreement with the United States and announced that his country will adhere to the reciprocal tariffs policy proposed by the Donald Trump administration. His statements were made at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), an event that brings together right-wing leaders from the United States and around the world, receiving applause and cheers.
Milei criticized Mercosur, labeling it as the main obstacle for Argentina to finalize a trade agreement with the U.S. According to the Argentine president, if it weren't for the restrictions imposed by Mercosur, his country would already be negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with the United States.
Trump recently announced the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on countries that tax American products, aiming to equalize rates. On the other hand, Argentina will be affected by the 25 percent tariffs on aluminum and steel imports that will come into effect on March 12.
In contrast, Mercosur has been in talks with the European Union to reach a trade agreement that counters Washington's tariffs. Despite having agreed to a deal last December, it requires legal and parliamentary approval from the Member States.
Milei showed willingness to leave the trade bloc if necessary to finalize a treaty with the U.S. In his speech at CPAC, he praised Elon Musk and applauded the cuts in U.S. humanitarian aid, highlighting Argentina's interest in being the first to join the reciprocal trade agreement requested by Trump.
