French farmers took to the streets of Paris on Tuesday to protest the proposed free trade agreement between the European Union and the South American bloc Mercosur, citing fears of unfair competition and damage to domestic agriculture.
The demonstration was called by France’s largest farmers’ union, the FNSEA, and comes amid growing opposition to the deal across the country. Protesters argue that if the agreement is implemented, low-cost agricultural products from South America will enter the French market, undermining local farmers who must comply with stricter production and environmental regulations.
Damien Greffin, vice-president of the FNSEA and a regional farmers’ leader in the Paris area, said the agreement was approved without adequately consulting farmers or considering their concerns. He warned that the deal would increase imports of products that France is capable of producing domestically, but which do not meet the same regulatory standards imposed on French producers.
According to Paris police, around 350 tractors joined the protest. One convoy gathered near the Arc de Triomphe, while another assembled in front of the French Parliament, causing significant disruption in parts of the capital.
Greffin said further protests are planned, including a major demonstration on January 20 in front of the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
Despite France’s opposition, a majority of EU member states approved the Mercosur agreement last Friday, intensifying pressure on the French government. Several opposition parties have since submitted motions of no confidence, reflecting the political fallout surrounding the controversial trade deal.
