While in Brazil the G20 is preparing to sign the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement, the French agricultural unions are banging their fists on the table: “We will start on Monday,” announced Arnaud Rousseau, president of the FNSEA. The idea is simple: put pressure on the government to respect the opposition’s promises.
Mercosur, the South American economic alliance, and the EU have been negotiating the creation of a major free trade zone for more than 20 years. But this agreement, which should open up great opportunities for European industry, deeply worries farmers. And for good reason! The text provides for import quotas for low-cost South American products, free of customs duties. The affected products, often resulting from practices banned in Europe, risk crushing the European market: “30,000 agricultural companies are at risk and four sectors are affected: ethanol, sugar, beef and poultry”, denounced Christiane Lambert, former president of the FNSEA, in 2018.
The FNSEA, supported by the Rural Coordination and the Peasant Confederation, denounces competition that is deemed unfair. Without “mirror clauses” imposing equivalent health and environmental standards, the treaty risks flooding Europe with products such as chicken treated with antibiotics or GMO corn.
For his part, Prime Minister Michel Barnier told Ursula von der Leyen that “France will not accept this agreement as it is”. The problem is that Brussels’ determination, which relies above all on German will, puts Paris in a delicate position. It therefore remains to be seen whether the French state will be able to make its voice heard before a Union that intends to put its sovereignty aside. As explained CNEWSto hope to block the decision, France must assemble a blocking minority, made up of at least four states, within the Council which brings together the members of the EU.
What are the main concerns of FNSEA regarding the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Arnaud Rousseau, President of FNSEA
Editor: Welcome, Arnaud Rousseau, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the ongoing developments surrounding the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement. As the president of FNSEA, what are the main concerns your organization has regarding this agreement?
Rousseau: Thank you for having me. Our primary concern lies in the potential impact that this agreement could have on our agricultural sector in France. The EU-Mercosur deal opens the door for increased agricultural imports from South American countries, especially Brazil, where farming practices might not adhere to the same environmental and quality standards we uphold in Europe.
Editor: It’s understandable that agricultural unions would want to protect local farmers. With the G20 preparing to sign this agreement in Brazil, how do you plan to make your voice heard?
Rousseau: We are taking a firm stance. We’ve initiated a campaign starting Monday to raise awareness and apply pressure to the French government and European Union officials. Our goal is to ensure they fulfill their promises to support the agricultural sector in light of these new commitments. We believe that if the government prioritizes local agriculture, the interests of the European farming community can be safeguarded.
Editor: What specific measures or support are you asking from the government to protect French agriculture?
Rousseau: We’re asking for several key things: first, we need clear commitments to protect our market from excessive imports that could undercut our prices. Second, we request the implementation of strict compliance checks to ensure imported products meet our environmental and safety standards. we seek investments in sustainable agriculture that can make our farms more competitive and resilient to these external pressures.
Editor: Some might argue that free trade agreements are essential for economic growth and can provide consumers with more choices. What is your response to that perspective?
Rousseau: While I acknowledge the benefits of free trade, including economic growth and consumer choice, it must not come at the expense of local farmers and environmental sustainability. It’s essential that these agreements are balanced and that they incorporate protections for farmers. Otherwise, we risk undermining our domestic agriculture and the livelihoods of countless families who depend on it.
Editor: Do you think there’s enough public awareness about the implications of this agreement on French agriculture?
Rousseau: Unfortunately, I don’t believe there is enough awareness. Many people are focused on the immediate benefits of cheaper imports without considering the long-term effects on our local markets and communities. That’s why our campaign will also include public outreach to help educate consumers about the importance of supporting local agriculture and the potential consequences of this agreement.
Editor: It sounds like a significant battle ahead. Do you have a message for policymakers as they approach the signing of this agreement?
Rousseau: Absolutely. I urge policymakers to listen to the concerns of the agricultural community and to prioritize the long-term viability and sustainability of our farming sector. It’s not just about trade; it’s about the food we produce, the environment we protect, and the livelihoods we sustain.
Editor: Thank you, Arnaud Rousseau, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that this is a critical moment for French agriculture, and we wish you the best in your efforts to advocate for it.
Rousseau: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we keep this conversation going and work together for a sustainable future in agriculture.