France Leads Opposition Amid Farmers' Protests Against EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement

France has firmly declared its opposition to the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement, with President Emmanuel Macron announcing that France will vote against the treaty in the upcoming Brussels vote. This stance aligns France with other dissenting EU members including Poland, Austria, Hungary, and Ireland, the latter of which has also publicly rejected the agreement. However, the prospects of blocking the treaty appear slim, as the European Commission is poised to secure a qualified majority approval, bolstered by nations such as Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Scandinavian countries that advocate for the pact to enhance the European economy.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani recently highlighted the 'enormous advantages' new EU measures offer to farmers under the agreement, signaling a shift in Italy's traditionally hesitant position towards support. This development increases momentum for the agreement, which has been under negotiation for over 25 years, with a potential signing ceremony scheduled as soon as Monday in Paraguay.

Domestic backlash in France remains intense, particularly among agricultural stakeholders. Farmers organized protests in Paris, with the Coordination Rurale mobilizing tractor convoys that recently left the city, expressing hope for swift government announcements. This grassroots action underscores widespread concern for protecting French and European food sovereignty, a priority repeatedly emphasized by President Macron. He previously characterized the agreement as a 'bad text' and vowed to take all measures necessary to prevent ratification. Despite these strong statements, no updates on the agreement's content have emerged since his initial comments.

The EU-Mercosur agreement, concluded in negotiation on December 6, 2024, has sparked political division not only within EU member states but also deep unease among farmers and rural groups in France who fear adverse impacts on their livelihoods and food standards.

As the vote approaches, France's opposition reflects a broader conflict between economic ambitions within the EU and the protection of domestic agricultural interests. The outcome will significantly influence the future of European trade policy and the agricultural sector's role within it.