French National Assembly Nearly Unanimously Opposes EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement

On November 27, 2025, the French National Assembly adopted a non-binding resolution almost unanimously—244 votes in favor and only one against—opposing the EU-Mercosur trade agreement ahead of crucial European votes in December. The resolution, proposed by La France insoumise (LFI), urges the French government to oppose the treaty and calls for forming a blocking minority in the EU Council as well as referring the agreement to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) for compliance review.

The trade agreement, signed at the end of 2024, aims to increase European exports such as vehicles, machinery, and wine to South America in exchange for reduced tariffs on agricultural products like beef, poultry, sugar, and honey. However, French farmers and many deputies express concerns that the agreement threatens French agriculture and climate goals. Deputy Matthias Tavel (LFI) described it as a “deadly” choice for agriculture and climate and criticized President Emmanuel Macron’s shift from earlier opposition to a more favorable stance.

Minister for Europe Benjamin Haddad defended the government's position but acknowledged that the agreement remains unacceptable in its current form. Though he welcomed the strengthening of safeguard clauses in October, Haddad insisted on additional measures, including mirror clauses and enhanced sanitary controls, before France finalizes its position.

The resolution also highlights the broader political critique of the deal as a continuation of neoliberal policies detrimental to agriculture. Macronist deputies notably abstained, marking political divisions. With the official treaty signing scheduled for December 19, the Assembly’s stance adds momentum to calls for revision and protection of French interests.