Farmers Protest with Tractors in Brussels Against EU-MERCOSUR Agreement

Tractor Protest in Brussels

In the capital of Belgium, Brussels, hundreds of farmers organized a protest with their tractors against the controversial trade agreement signed between the European Union (EU) and MERCOSUR.

Crowd Gathered at the Protest Site

At the event organized by farmers' associations in Belgium, farmers gathered in the Atomium area. The protesters blocked the entire street with tractors, expressing strong opposition to this new agreement involving Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

Concerns About Food Security

The demonstrators argued that fair trade conditions would not be established in agricultural and livestock products with MERCOSUR countries, stating that this agreement would jeopardize Europe’s food security. The protesters demanded that members of the European Parliament (EP) not approve this agreement.

Details of the Trade Agreement

The agreement, which took 25 years to negotiate, will come into effect after being approved by the EP and the EU Council. It provides customs advantages for beef, poultry, and dairy products. In return, MERCOSUR countries will open their markets further to European industrial products.

Farmers' Call for Adequate Measures

The agreement also includes certain clauses that could limit the entry of sensitive agricultural products into the EU; however, European farmers find these measures insufficient. Brussels regards the agreement as a significant geopolitical gain that will enhance the EU’s influence in Latin American trade.

Support and Resistance from Countries Against Farmers' Organizations

While Germany and Spain support the agreement, some countries such as France, Poland, and Hungary, along with farmers' organizations in Europe, oppose it.