French farmers protest against agricultural liberalization
The French livestock sector has intensified its mobilizations in various rural regions of the country. The discontent arises mainly from the trade agreements negotiated by the European Union, such as the treaty with Mercosur, which they perceive as a threat. They also denounce the low prices they receive for milk and meat, which endanger the survival of many farms. These actions include demonstrations and the strategic blocking of communication routes 🚜.
The epicenter of the mobilization in western France
The regions of Brittany and Normandy, historic hubs of livestock and dairy production, are the main focus of the agitation. Farmers use tractors and heavy machinery to disrupt traffic at key logistical points, generating considerable disruptions. Their goal is to make visible their precarious situation and exert pressure on the French government and European institutions. They seek for them to defend their interests in negotiations and establish more equitable minimum prices.
Main causes of discontent:- EU trade agreements: They fear that pacts like Mercosur will severely harm the local sector.
- Market prices: Low income from milk and meat compromises the economic viability of farms.
- Unfair competition: They warn about the entry of products with less rigorous environmental and animal welfare standards.
It seems that the only steak some are willing to swallow is the one with the conditions imposed from Brussels.
The threat of the Mercosur agreement and the demand for reciprocity
The sector identifies the trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur as a direct danger. They argue that it would facilitate the import of meat and dairy products produced under less strict regulations than European ones. This, they claim, would generate unfair competition. Farmers demand the application of the principle of reciprocity in regulations to safeguard local production and ensure equal conditions 🛡️.
Key demands of the farmers:- Apply regulatory reciprocity in all international trade agreements.
- Establish guaranteed minimum prices that cover production costs.
- Protect the European production model against