French farmers will launch nationwide protests from Monday over fears about a looming trade deal between the European Union and South American nations, the head of France's largest farming union has said.
Arnaud Rousseau, president of agricultural union FNSEA, announced the mobilisation on France Inter radio Wednesday – emphasising the aim is to pressure the government without causing major disruptions for the public.
"We are going to hit the road from Monday ... We’re not here to annoy the French,” Rousseau said, adding that unlike previous protests, the new action would avoid blocking motorways.
FNSEA’s plan will focus on rallies “in every department” for several days to coincide with a G20 meeting in Brazil where the controversial trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur nations – Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay – could be finalised.
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Cheaper imports
The deal, under discussion for more than two decades, wouldremove tariffs and allow annual imports of up to 100,000 tonnes of South American beef into EU markets.
Farmers argue that the influx of cheaper South American meat could devastate France’s agriculture, already weakened by a disastrous year.
“We want to make France’s voice heard at this critical moment,” Rousseau said, warning the trade deal could have "dramatic consequences" for French agriculture, especially on the issue of production standards.
"What are we talking about? Hormone-treated beef, growth-accelerated chicken," he said.
Meanwhile Prime Minister Michel Barnier will travel to Brussels on Wednesday to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and restate France's opposition to the trade deal in its current form.
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Historic protests
The union's announcement comes less than a year after historic farmer protests rocked France.
Other farming groups are also planning action, with the Coordination Rurale, France's second-largest agricultural union, promising an "agricultural revolt" from 19 November, including blocking food freight.
French farmers face multiple challenges beyond the trade deal. "The urgent issue is farm cash flow," Rousseau, pointing to a difficult year for the sector.
France has seen "the lowest wheat harvest in 40 years, grape harvests down by about 25 percent [...] and health issues like bluetongue disease."
Rousseau also expressed frustration over domestic agricultural policy. He noted that before parliament was dissolved in June, "we were promised an agricultural guidance law".
He added that regarding announcements made in early 2024, "concrete implementation is lacking in many areas".
