REUTERS reported that Argentina and Brazil are seeking $13.2-B in financial aid from the EU during ongoing trade talks with the four-nation Mercosur.
The aid aims to support trade objectives and compensate for increased competition.
However, disputes over excluding additional government procurement from European competition and concerns about Amazon deforestation have stalled negotiations.
Talks have accelerated recently, but the aid request and procurement discussions may prevent a final deal this year.
There is optimism for an agreement by December, but time is running out.
