2024-11-30 10:00:00
ANDcheckmate for the tomato. In the great chessboard of negotiated treaties, a free trade agreement has just been reached.Or at least to be very weakened.Don’t think about the one, close to success according to its promoters, between Europe and the Mercosur countries. Although French farmers have formed a united front in this fight,carrying forward their union pawns under the same flag,the much publicized game is far from won.
Deputies and senators voted, on Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 November, with a large majority for some, almost unanimously for others, their support for the goverment in its expressed desire to oppose the treaty “at state level”, but it remains to mobilize the key pieces to win. In this case other European countries, agreeing not to ratify it.
The treaty in question dates back to 2011 and was signed between the European Union and Morocco. And its reach can be quantified today. All year round,tomatoes from the Cherifiano kingdom arrive on the shelves of French supermarkets. At rock-bottom prices. “In 2023, tomato imports from Morocco increased by another 7.8% to 424,690 tonnes”says Pierre-Yves Jestin, president of the Association of Tomato Producers and the Breton Saveol cooperative.A level almost comparable to French production.
Competition deemed unfair
In terms of value, the progression is even more marked, estimated at +27%. And for good reason. The tax break doesn’t just apply to standard round tomatoes, but benefits the most popular segment of cherry tomatoes, which sell for 99 cents a punnet. And this all year round.
competition deemed unfair by French manufacturers, “when the cost of labor is in a ratio of 1 to 15”according to Mr. Jestin.In May, when the French market was tough, farmers demonstrated against these imports. The tomato, a concentrate of agricultural rage.
But, in October, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled in favor of those who chose to fight against the free trade agreement, after its extension, in 2019, to tomatoes produced in Western Sahara and considered Moroccan. The Polisario Front, a Sahrawi independence movement supported by Algeria, on the one hand, and the Peasant Confederation, on the other, have actually lodged an appeal.
They just won their case. Within a year, western Sahara tomatoes will have to be labeled with this origin and will no longer be able to benefit from the favorable customs conditions granted to Morocco. French horticulturists are now calling on the European Commission to rebalance the treaty. Tomato producers want to remake their cherry.
#tomato #concentrate #agricultural #rage
How are conventional supermarkets adapting to the rising popularity of discount retailers?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Retail Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today,we’re diving into the current state of the retail industry,especially focusing on discount supermarkets in Europe. Joining us is dr. Elise Martin, an expert in retail economics. Thank you for being with us today, Dr.Martin.
Dr. Martin: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this vital sector of our economy.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. We recently saw an image from a Lidl discount supermarket in Chatenay-Malabry that highlights the ongoing changes in the retail landscape. What trends do you observe in discount supermarkets like Lidl, especially in the context of recent economic shifts?
Dr. Martin: Absolutely, discount supermarkets have gained significant traction, particularly in these challenging economic times. Rising inflation and increasing living costs have made consumers more price-sensitive,leading them to seek out affordable options. Chains like Lidl have capitalized on this by not just offering lower prices but also improving their product quality and range.
Editor: That makes a lot of sense! Many people might associate discount stores with lower quality, but it seems ther’s been a concerted effort to change that perception. Can you elaborate on how these brands are shifting consumer perceptions?
Dr. Martin: Certainly! Lidl and its competitors have invested in better sourcing and exclusive product lines that emphasize quality without sacrificing affordability. By offering organic and locally sourced items, they appeal to a broader audience, especially health-conscious consumers. Marketing strategies that spotlight these improvements are also crucial.
Editor: With the shift towards discount retailers, how do you see traditional supermarkets adjusting to remain competitive?
Dr. Martin: Traditional supermarkets are certainly feeling the pressure to innovate.Many are enhancing their loyalty programs, expanding private label offerings, and even exploring automated solutions to reduce costs.Some are realigning their pricing strategies to better compete with discount supermarkets, which may include more frequent sales or special promotions.
Editor: Captivating! And what do you think are the long-term implications of this trend? Are discount supermarkets here to stay, or will we see a return to more traditional retailers dominating the market?
Dr. Martin: I believe discount supermarkets are here to stay, especially as consumer habits have shifted. The pandemic has accelerated the trend toward value shopping and increased awareness of personal finances. Though, traditional retailers that adapt and innovate will still maintain a strong presence. It will be a landscape where both types of stores coexist, catering to different consumer needs.
Editor: It sounds like a merging of strategies rather than an outright replacement. As an expert, what advice would you give to consumers navigating this evolving retail surroundings?
Dr.Martin: I’d advise consumers to remain informed and consider their personal shopping preferences.Whether it’s price, quality, or convenience, being aware of what each retailer offers and making comparisons can lead to better purchasing decisions. It’s an exciting time in retail, and informed consumers are likely to benefit the most.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Martin, for these insights.It’s clear that the retail sector is transforming, and understanding these trends will be crucial for both consumers and businesses. We appreciate your time today!
Dr.Martin: Thank you for having me! it’s been a pleasure discussing these critically important topics with you.