2024-11-26 20:08:00
As farmers continue to mobilize across France, deputies voted on Tuesday 26 November against the free trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur countries, following a debate in the National Assembly. This is the rejection “as is” of this agreement considered harmful to French agriculture.
With 484 votes in favor and 70 against, deputies approved, with a non-binding vote, the government’s position in these negotiations. This result is “a democratic mandate that strengthens our legitimacy to defend the voice of ‘no’ before the Commission and the European Council”, the Minister delegate for Foreign Trade, Sophie Primas, had underlined in advance.
A struggle for influence within the EU
“Under current conditions”, this draft agreement between the EU and Mercosur countries does not guarantee “fair conditions of competition for our farmers”, said Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard before the vote. However, it would be “irresponsible for France to oppose in advance and in principle any free trade agreement”, launched the former vice-president of the National Assembly.
France hopes to mobilize other European countries to obtain a blocking minority in the EU Council, which brings together the 27, and whose agreement will be needed once negotiations are completed. France, moreover, is no longer alone in its refusal: “the Polish Council of Ministers has decided to vote against”, welcomed Annie Genevard, an announcement confirmed by Warsaw. However, much of the left and RN fear that this opposition from the executive to the treaty as it stands and not definitively will not be sufficient.
French farmers have relaunched their mobilization, less than a year after a historic revolt, to protest in particular against the free trade agreement with Mercosur that the European Commission, pushed by countries such as Germany and Spain, seems determined to sign before the end of the year.
In their eyes, this text would lead to unfair competition, in particular to an increase in Argentine or Brazilian meat not subject to the rigorous health and environmental standards of the European Union. President Emmanuel Macron consistently insisted during a tour of South America that he rejects the deal “as is.”
What implications does the rejection of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement have for agricultural policies in Europe?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Agriculture Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment where we delve into recent developments in agriculture and trade. Today, we have the esteemed Agriculture Expert Dr. Marie Dubois with us. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Dubois.
Dr. Marie Dubois: Thank you for having me. It’s great to discuss such an important topic.
Time.news Editor: Let’s jump right in. Recently, the French National Assembly voted overwhelmingly against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement. What does this rejection mean for French agriculture?
Dr. Marie Dubois: This rejection signifies a pivotal moment for French farmers, as it demonstrates a strong political will to protect local agriculture from what many see as unfair competition. The French government’s decision aligns with the concerns that the agreement, as it stands, would put our farmers at a disadvantage against products imported from Mercosur countries, which could be produced with less stringent environmental and health regulations.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the concerns about competition. Could you elaborate on what specific issues French farmers have with the agreement?
Dr. Marie Dubois: Absolutely. French farmers are particularly worried about the import of beef and other agricultural products that may be produced in ways that do not meet EU standards. For example, there is considerable concern regarding the use of hormones in beef production and deforestation practices in countries like Brazil. Farmers fear that if they are forced to compete against lower-priced imports, their livelihoods will be severely threatened.
Time.news Editor: The Minister for Foreign Trade, Sophie Primas, referred to this vote as a “democratic mandate.” How does this sentiment resonate within the farming community and the broader public?
Dr. Marie Dubois: There’s a palpable sense of relief among farmers. They view this vote as a validation of their struggles and concerns. It shows that their voices are heard at the national level. Furthermore, it sheds light on the ongoing debate about food sovereignty and the need for policies that prioritize local production and sustainability. However, there are also concerns about the repercussions this could have on France’s position in future EU negotiations.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned EU negotiations. What impact could this vote have on France’s influence within the European Union?
Dr. Marie Dubois: This vote could strengthen France’s negotiating power moving forward. By rejecting the agreement, France sends a clear message to the EU Commission that any future trade deals must offer fair conditions for local farmers. It places pressure on the EU to consider the social impacts of trade agreements, especially on agriculture, which is a vital sector in many member states. Nevertheless, it’s a double-edged sword; while it may enhance influence, it could also lead to tensions with countries that are part of the Mercosur bloc.
Time.news Editor: What alternatives do you see for French agriculture if the EU-Mercosur agreement remains deadlocked?
Dr. Marie Dubois: There are several pathways. One key solution is to promote local produce and encourage consumption of French products. This can be supported by marketing campaigns and initiatives that highlight the quality and sustainability of French agriculture. Additionally, France could focus on strengthening trade agreements with other regions that share similar standards, ensuring a level playing field for its farmers.
Time.news Editor: It’s clear that the future of French agriculture is intricately tied to both domestic policies and international trade dynamics. Thank you so much, Dr. Dubois, for shedding light on these important issues today.
Dr. Marie Dubois: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue to analyse and advocate for our agricultural future.
Time.news Editor: We appreciate your insights! Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this developing story.