EU–Mercosur Food Trade: Brussels’ proposed EU pesticide residue ban could raise consumer prices and cut EU agricultural imports, with critics warning it would force “mirror clause” rules on foreign growers, including Mercosur producers. Regional Shipping & Tourism: Uruguay hosted the 11th Southern Cone Cruise Meeting in Punta del Este, where port and tourism authorities pushed for unified regional itineraries, better connectivity, and cost control for cruise operators. Offshore Energy: Eni is set to become a strategic partner in Uruguay’s Block 6 offshore after an agreement with APA, with APA keeping a 60% working interest and Eni funding most initial exploration work planned for 2027. Protein Industry Leadership: JBS named Wesley Batista Filho as global CEO effective January 2027, with Gilberto Tomazoni stepping down after 14 years and moving into vice chairman/senior adviser roles. Uruguay Tech Funding: hiSofi, a Uruguayan smart collections management startup, raised US$1m, adding Brazilian fund support plus a US$250k ANII matching contribution, and is returning to Uruguay to install its AI/data science hub. Climate & Research Links: An Arctic expedition led by Türkiye included researchers from Argentina, Bulgaria, and Uruguay studying glacier retreat impacts and airborne microplastics. Film & Creative Industry: Locarno Pro’s First Look spotlighted Uruguay, with “Spring Story” and “The Surubí” winning major prizes, and “Maltrato Animal” securing world sales rights after a Locarno screening.