2024-11-26 13:00:00
AWhen farmers have resumed the path of mobilization, it is fashionable among the political class to unite in the fight against the deregulation of agricultural markets. From Matignon to right-wing parliamentarians and supporters of Emmanuel Macron, passing through the Elysée, we repeat it again and again: France must wage a ruthless fight against any unfair competition in agricultural matters, in particular in the dossier of the free trade agreement between the European Union (EU) and Mercosur countries (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia)
The left and environmentalists would therefore no longer be the only ones to raise the alarm in the face of foreign production that does not respect our health and environmental needs. Truly ? In fact, regardless of the positions and without waiting for the outcome of the EU-Mercosur agreement, Michel Barnier’s government continues to deliberately maintain unfair agricultural competition, like the governments of Gabriel Attal and that of Elisabeth Borne before him.
At issue: the benevolence of these successive governments towards the exports, by companies established in France, of pesticides which are nevertheless banned on our soil. This disastrous trade inexorably supplies our stalls with foreign agricultural products treated with substances that we consider too dangerous to be used on our European farms. In short: we supply the entire world with the toxic substances we ban on our farms, and we accept seeing them return to our supermarkets. Returned to the sender, without regard for the health of the French, that of foreign agricultural workers and of our farmers destitute in the face of foreign competitors, authorized to spread what we have legitimately prohibited at home.
The current government and the President of the Republic, who reiterate to anyone willing to listen, their opposition to unfair competition in the agricultural sector and to the free trade agreement with the Mercosur countries, have never worked for the full application of the bans of exports voted by the legislator in 2018. The EGalim law envisaged, starting from 2022, putting an end to the production and export of pesticides banned in Europe for health and environmental reasons. Successive governments have boasted about it on several occasions: France would thus become the first European to plan such a measure.
– What are the key challenges facing farmers in France due to the EU-Mercosur agreement?
Interview: The Future of Farming in France
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome to Time.news. Today we have a special guest, Dr. Claire Lavelle, an expert in agricultural policy and sustainability. With recent discussions around the European Union’s free trade agreement with Mercosur and the rising mobilization among French farmers, we have plenty to explore. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Lavelle.
Dr. Claire Lavelle: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Interviewer: The political landscape in France seems to be shifting, with even the right-wing and government officials joining farmers in opposing the deregulation of agricultural markets. What do you think is driving this newfound unity?
Dr. Lavelle: It’s quite a significant development, isn’t it? I believe it reflects a growing awareness of the systemic issues within the agricultural sector. Farmers have rallied against what they see as unfair competition, particularly from the EU-Mercosur agreement, which threatens to undermine French agricultural standards. Politicians are recognizing that supporting their farmers is essential for both economic and social stability, especially given the historical context of farmers being underrepresented in political dialog.
Interviewer: That brings us to the profound concerns about agricultural imports not adhering to French health and environmental regulations. Could you elaborate on the implications of this?
Dr. Lavelle: Absolutely. The core of the issue lies in the juxtaposition of European regulations against imported products. When France permits the import of agricultural goods treated with pesticides not permitted in our own farming practices, it sends a contradictory message about the safety and quality of our food supply. This not only endangers local farmers who comply with strict regulations but also undermines public trust in food safety. If we’re exporting banned pesticides, we’re essentially exporting risks and disadvantaging our farmers.
Interviewer: There seems to be a contradiction in policy. How do you see the role of government evolving in light of these challenges?
Dr. Lavelle: The government must adopt a more coherent agricultural policy that prioritizes domestic production and environmental sustainability. Regulatory frameworks must evolve to ensure that imported goods meet the same standards as local produce. France has an opportunity to lead in sustainable agriculture, and to do so, it must act decisively against any unfair competition and harmful practices that undermine its farmers.
Interviewer: Some critics argue that even the current government maintains a laissez-faire stance toward agricultural imports, despite the ongoing farmers’ mobilization. What changes would you advocate for to address this?
Dr. Lavelle: First and foremost, a complete review of the EU-Mercosur agreement is necessary, especially concerning agricultural provisions. Additionally, the government must implement stricter regulations on the importation of goods that fail to meet French and EU safety standards. Engaging with farmers directly to understand their needs will also be crucial. We need to create an inclusive dialog that prioritizes agrarian welfare and environmental sustainability.
Interviewer: There’s a growing movement among various political factions focusing on these issues. Do you think this could lead to tangible policy changes soon?
Dr. Lavelle: I’m optimistic that given the mounting pressure from farmers and the shifting political dynamics, we may see a more concerted effort toward reform. The mobilization of farmers could be a catalyst for broader political change. However, it will take persistence and collaboration among all stakeholders, including agricultural organizations, environmental groups, and policymakers.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Lavelle, for your insights. It’s clear that the intersection of agriculture, policy, and environmental sustainability is critical for the future of farming in France.
Dr. Lavelle: Thank you for having me! It’s a crucial time for farmers and policymakers alike, and I’m hopeful for the future of sustainable agriculture.
Interviewer: We appreciate your time and expertise. Thank you for joining us today!
Dr. Lavelle: My pleasure!