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EU-Mercosur Trade Deal Faces Farmer Backlash
European farmers protest the EU-Mercosur trade deal, fearing unfair competition and negative environmental and health consequences, while supporters highlight the economic opportunities.
Spanish
United States
PoliticsEuropean UnionProtestsEnvironmentInternational TradeAgricultureTrade Deal
European Union (Eu)MercosurCoordinadora Europea Vía Campesina (Ecvc)FugeaGue/NglS&D
Pierre MaisonManon AubryBenoît CassartJavier Moreno Sánchez
- What are the arguments in favor of the EU-Mercosur trade deal?
- Supporters argue that the deal would open up the world's largest market for EU businesses and create opportunities for European farmers and service providers. They emphasize the need for diversified trade partners in the current geopolitical climate.
- What are the key concerns of European farmers regarding this agreement?
- European farmers are protesting the deal due to concerns about unfair competition from Mercosur countries. They fear lower prices and the impact on small producers. The deal may allow for imports of products like beef that are already produced within the EU.
- What is the main point of contention surrounding the EU-Mercosur trade deal?
- The EU-Mercosur trade deal, negotiated since 1999 and signed in 2019, could be approved at the G20 summit in Brazil. This has sparked protests from European farmers who fear unfair competition.
- What are the potential environmental and health impacts of the agreement according to its critics?
- Opponents cite concerns about health, environmental, and social consequences of the agreement, including increased deforestation and the use of pesticides banned in the EU. They are demanding stricter regulations and protections.
- What is the current status of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement and the divisions among member states?
- The approval of the deal is uncertain, with member states divided. While some, such as Germany, Spain, and Italy, support it, others like France, Poland, and Austria are strongly opposed, highlighting a potential deadlock.