The article highlights the significant development of the newly signed free trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur, which represents nearly 20 years of negotiations culminating in an agreement that creates the world's largest free trade area, encompassing around 720 million people. This deal is primarily marketed as an economic triumph that provides the EU with access to new markets and boosts export opportunities. However, there are deeper implications that extend beyond immediate economic gains.

Helena Tõnise raises critical questions about the long-term consequences of this agreement, arguing that the economic benefits must be weighed against the potential for increased dependency of Europe on South American markets. The article reflects on how this deal might shift the EU's economic landscape and its reliance on external suppliers, potentially influencing not only market dynamics but also the political relations between the regions involved.

Furthermore, the article prompts readers to consider the moral aspects of the agreement, suggesting that while the economic outlook appears positive, the conditions under which these gains are achieved could compromise European values and ethical standards. Tõnise's insights encourage a nuanced view of international trade agreements, advocating for a balance between economic interests and adherence to principles that define the European identity.