South American Trade Talks Suspended

Trade talks between the European Union and key South American partners Mercosur have broken down amid divisions over market access. Negotiations with the four-member bloc, which includes Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, taking place this week in Brussels have broken up with major differences remaining. According to media reports, the discussions aimed at creating a free trade zone -- scheduled to end in October -- will now restart in August.The EU had been pressing for greater access to telecommunication and maritime shipping industries while Mercosur wants more access to agriculture markets. (EUobserver.com)