Locations Affected: France
There are ongoing farmers’ protests in France against a prospective trade deal between the European Union (EU) and Mercosur countries (a South American trade bloc that includes Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay). The protests follow a demonstration by European farmers in Brussels on 13 November and coincide with the G20 leaders’ meeting in Rio de Janeiro. The EU-Mercosur deal with South American countries, is expected to allow the import of an additional 99,000 tons of beef, 190,000 tons of sugar, 180,000 tons of poultry meat, and one million tons of maize.
Opposition to the Trade Agreement
A surge in imports from Ukraine following Russia’s invasion led to widespread protests by farmers across Europe in January and February 2024, which have reignited due to a push by the European Union and members of the Mercosur bloc to conclude trade negotiations by the end of 2024, with many expecting the deal to be finalized at the G20 summit. European farmers strongly oppose the EU-Mercosur trade deal, claiming it threatens their livelihoods by allowing cheaper South American agricultural imports produced under lower environmental and animal welfare standards. Farmers in France are also dissatisfied due to delays in implementing measures promised during previous protests, harvests spoiled by rainfall, and outbreaks of livestock diseases.
Rallies and Blockades Planned
- Protests are ongoing in France until 20 November, with gatherings at government buildings, prefectures, and traffic circles, led by unions like Fédération Nationale des Syndicats d’Exploitants Agricoles (FNSEA) and Young Farmers.
- While the unions have stated they do not intend to block roads and highways, the agricultural union Coordination Rurale has announced plans for freight blockades starting 19 November in the regions of Auch and Agen. Confédération Paysanne will hold a rally in front of the French finance ministry at 1200 hours local time on 20 November.
- French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed concerns about the deal, particularly regarding the potential flooding of European markets with cheap Brazilian beef and has called for South American producers to meet EU standards.
After a meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei, French President Macron stated that France would not approve the EU-Mercosur trade agreement in its current form. Supporters of the deal argue it would strengthen economic ties between Europe and South America by eliminating tariffs on European exports and expanding market access for businesses. French Prime Minister Michel Bernier has also refused to accept the agreement under its current terms during a meeting with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. However, France has struggled to form a minority bloc within the EU to oppose the deal, with limited success. The lack of EU allies against the deal could leave France at a disadvantage in negotiations with protesting farmers. Protests are expected to continue until mid-December, potentially causing traffic disruptions and heightened security measures around government buildings and highways. Additionally, freight blockades could impact supply chains and affect industries reliant on transportation, including agriculture, logistics, and retail. Organizations are advised to stay updated on the situation and prepare necessary contingency plans.
