France Faces Intensifying Agricultural Crisis Amid Protests and Delivery Disruptions

France is witnessing escalating turmoil in its agricultural sector as widespread farmer protests persist against the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement and government policies addressing bovine dermatitis. Despite government efforts, public confidence remains low, and logistical difficulties loom ahead of the Christmas season.

Approximately 10,000 farmers demonstrated in Brussels in December 2025 to oppose the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which they argue endangers French agriculture. During these protests, stone-throwing and fireworks targeted the 'Station Europe' building near the European Parliament, signaling heightened tensions. French farmers have simultaneously mobilized domestically against the systematic culling of herds affected by contagious nodular dermatitis (DNC), a disease impacting cattle.

A recent survey by Odoxa-Backbone Consulting for Le Figaro reveals that nearly 80% of the French population believes the government is inadequately handling the crisis, although 78% support the farmers’ protests. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has engaged agricultural unions in talks and visited affected farmers in Ariège, yet public dissatisfaction endures.

Transporters have raised alarms over the consequences of farmers’ blockades on deliveries, particularly of perishable food goods, with delays reportedly increasing by 20 to 30%. Franck Puharré, head of Union TLF, highlighted client anxieties due to truck immobilizations and detours caused by roadblocks mainly in Southwest France. Though major logistics companies like Amazon and DHL report preparedness for disruptions, delivery complications are expected to worsen with the impending school holidays. Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot urged farmers to permit vehicle movement, acknowledging public sympathy for farmers but warning of the broader impact.

Farmers have threatened to maintain blockades through the holiday season, driven by ongoing grievances linked to the handling of bovine dermatitis and the broader trade agreement dispute. The complex interplay of protest actions, government responses, and transport challenges underscores the depth of France’s agricultural crisis as year-end approaches.