France Delays EU-Mercosur Deal, Raises Concerns for Dairy Sector
France has officially requested a delay in the final voting process of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, citing concerns over potential unfair competition that could impact the dairy and meat sectors. The French government expressed that the current terms of the agreement may not adequately protect European agricultural producers, especially those in the dairy industry.
The EU-Mercosur deal, which aims to facilitate trade between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc, comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, has been under negotiation for over two decades. The delay in the voting process has further prolonged the uncertainty faced by dairy producers who fear increased competition from Mercosur countries, known for their sizable agricultural export markets.
French officials argue that the agreement lacks sufficient safeguards for European farmers, who could be at a disadvantage due to differences in production standards and costs. This sentiment is echoed by various agricultural unions in France and other EU countries, who have expressed their apprehensions about the potential impact on local dairy and meat markets.
The request for postponement has received mixed reactions from other EU member states, with some supporting France's cautious approach while others push for a swift conclusion to the negotiations. The outcome of this delay remains uncertain, as discussions continue to address the concerns raised by France and other stakeholders within the EU.
