EU-Mercosur Deal Faces Strong Opposition
The European Commission is set to adopt the EU-Mercosur trade deal, but farmers, NGOs, and lawmakers are raising concerns and preparing challenges.
The European Commission is expected to formally adopt the EU-Mercosur agreement this week, advancing a major trade pact with South American countries. The move follows a political agreement reached in Uruguay in December.
Ratification Path
The Commission may separate the trade section from the wider agreement, which would change the approval process. In that case, the deal would only need approval from the European Parliament and support from at least 15 EU member states, covering 65% of the population, instead of ratification by all 27 national parliaments.
Farmers’ Concerns
In France, the main farmers’ union FNSEA has voiced strong opposition. President Arnaud Rousseau warned about imports treated with pesticides banned in the EU and raised concerns about limited checks on foreign products. The union is exploring legal options and preparing for the European Parliament vote.
Political Pushback
French MEP Pascal Canfin announced plans for a cross-party initiative to challenge the deal before the EU’s top court. He argued that a “rebalancing mechanism” included in the agreement could weaken the EU’s ability to legislate.
Wider Reactions
European farmers’ unions Copa and Cogeca also criticized the deal, saying it would negatively affect farmers, rural areas, and consumers. NGOs and farm groups plan to protest in Brussels later this week.
Accompanying Document
The Commission is expected to publish an additional “accompanying document” alongside the agreement. Sources suggest this text will not be legally binding for Mercosur countries. Details remain confidential, and farmers’ groups say they have not received guarantees on safeguards or compensation.
Next Steps
The Commission’s decision and accompanying measures will set the stage for the European Parliament debate. Until then, opposition groups across Europe continue to organize and press their case.
Source: https://www.euractiv.com/section/agriculture-food/news/farmers-meps-ready-for-fight-as-brussels-moves-to-adopt-mercosur-deal/