Paraguay’s in the news as part of the EU-Mercosur trade deal progress, boosting South America’s biggest trade bloc amid global shifts.
The EU has announced it will provisional apply its trade agreement with Mercosur countries after ratification by Argentina and Uruguay, despite opposition from some EU states and pending European Parliament approval. The move aims to diversify trade amid global upheaval, with France strongly opposing the deal due to concerns over its farmers.
The EU has triggered the start of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement, after Paraguay ratified it. The deal, which links over 700 million people and 25% of global GDP, faces legal challenges in the EU but is expected to begin trade in May. The agreement aims to reduce EU dependence on China and the US.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the signing of an eight-year trade agreement with Australia, aimed at diversifying supply chains, reducing dependence on China, and boosting exports. The deal includes tariff reductions, critical mineral cooperation, and enhanced defense ties, with some contentious issues still unresolved.
Senegal has lodged an appeal after CAF has stripped it of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, awarding Morocco the trophy following a controversial final. Senegal's players and officials argue they were forced onto the pitch and deny protesting the refereeing decision. The decision has sparked calls for an investigation into potential corruption within CAF.
The US has been sending migrants from Latin America to Congo under third-country agreements. The first groups have arrived in Kinshasa, with the US covering logistics. Critics raise concerns over legality, human rights, and the stability of destination countries.
Paraguay's president Santiago Peña has visited Taiwan and has reaffirmed diplomatic support, signing cooperation agreements and praising shared democratic values. China has urged Paraguay to sever ties, saying most Paraguayans favour establishing relations with Beijing, and has criticised Paraguayan officials who visit Taipei.
The Buenos Aires Sports Security Committee has issued a preventive ban on confetti in stadiums after a fire damaged seats during a match between River Plate and Boca Juniors. The fire was caused by confetti igniting, leading to injuries and arrests. The ban aims to prevent future incidents as authorities review stadium safety protocols.
The EU has provisionally applied the EU-Mercosur trade pact amid domestic opposition, with tariffs set to fall on most bilateral trade. Final ratification remains pending the EU judiciary's ruling; the bloc cites potential GDP gains while critics warn of farming disruption and environmental risks. Leaders are coordinating Friday to mark the milestone as negotiators push for full implementation.
Prices for the 2026 World Cup action in the US, Canada, and Mexico have surged, with US opener USA vs Paraguay starting around $1,100 and finals cited near $11,000 to $13,000 in some face-value ranges. Critics say the market-driven approach reflects demand and resale dynamics, while officials note regulation, supply, and security costs.
Neymar has apologised publicly after an on-field confrontation with Robinho Jr., son of former Brazil star Robinho, at Santos. The clash followed a training-room incident reportedly over being dribbled past; Neymar has since hugged Robinho Jr. after scoring in a Copa Sudamericana draw in Paraguay. Santos has opened an investigation.
Paraguay, a rare South American ally of Taiwan, is hosting a business delegation led by Peña as President Lai Ching‑te welcomes him with military honors. Beijing is intensifying pressure on Taiwan’s diplomatic partners, while Taiwan has sought to project international presence and expand ties.
Ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup in the United States have surged, with opening-match seats around $1,100 and final tickets approaching $13,000 on official channels; resale platforms show even higher figures. Officials defend dynamic pricing, while critics warn it narrows access for average fans. Hotels and travel costs are also rising, adding to the roughly month-long financial burden for attendees.
Johnny Cardoso will undergo surgery on his right ankle after training injury, ruling him out of the US World Cup squad. His injury compounds midfield concerns as Tanner Tessmann and others face limited availability ahead of the tournament co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada. Mauricio Pochettino is set to name the 26-man roster on May 26.