Brussels – Approximately 150 MEPs opposed to the free trade agreement have launched a procedure to refer the issue to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). A vote on this matter is set for January 21, which is essential for moving forward, but is distinct from the final parliamentary vote on the agreement itself, anticipated no earlier than February.
In a legislative chamber of 720 MEPs, a majority in favor of the CJEU referral would “freeze the ratification process” in Parliament for “at least six months until the Court’s ruling,” according to French centrist MEP Pascal Canfin in November. However, the vote’s outcome remains uncertain.
Brussels stated on Monday that a provisional application of the agreement is “legally possible” even prior to ratification by the European Parliament, although no decision has been reached at this point.
“The treaty provides for this possibility” of provisional application, noted Olof Gill, a spokesperson for the European Commission. (January 14, 2026)
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