The deal with the South American trading bloc will create the world’s biggest free trade zone with a combined population of over 700 million people.

Most EU countries are in favour of the deal, though Ireland is among countries which have opposed it, largely due to concerns from Irish farmers about beef imports.

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has been asked by the European Parliament to assess whether the deal is compatible with the EU treaties and has not yet ruled on the matter.

However, the European Commission yesterday took the final procedural step required for provisional application of the interim trade agreement (ITA) by sending its “note verbale” to Paraguay, the legal guardian of the Mercosur treaties.

The ITA will apply provisionally from 1 May between the EU and all Mercosur countries that complete their ratification procedures and notify the EU before the end of March.

Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay have already taken this step, while Paraguay has recently ratified the agreement and is expected to send its notification soon.

Maroš Šefčovič, the European commissioner for trade, said: “Today is an important step in demonstrating our credibility as a major trading partner.

“The priority now is turning this EU-Mercosur agreement into concrete outcomes, giving EU exporters the platform they need to seize new opportunities for trade, growth and jobs.

“Provisional application will allow us to begin delivering on that promise.

“I look forward to seeing this agreement fulfil its potential, strengthening our economy and reinforcing our position in global trade, while we complete all democratic procedures.”