French farmers hold significant political power, regardless of the ruling party. They are prepared to show their influence, especially regarding the EU’s proposed deal with South America’s Mercosur bloc.
Farmers are concerned about cheaper agricultural products, such as Bolivian potatoes, entering the French market from Mercosur countries like Argentina and Brazil. The French government has vowed to block any agricultural deal with Mercosur.
Mercosur consists of Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela, plus associated states like Chile and Peru. France opposes any agreement on agricultural imports with the bloc.
Prime Minister Michel Barnier has expressed France’s strong opposition to the deal, calling it unacceptable. Ministers are committed to using all means to prevent the agreement from passing in its current form.
French farmers have protested in Paris and Brussels, fearing the deal will undercut local produce. This opposition contrasts with Spain’s more supportive stance on the negotiations.
