French Farmers Intensify Protests Against Mercosur Trade Deal, Vote Delayed

Widespread Disruption Across France

French farmers have intensified their protests across the nation, causing significant disruption to motorways, provincial roads, and access routes to ski resorts. The demonstrations, which have seen farmers use tractors to create barricades and, in some instances, burn tires and hay bales, are primarily aimed at the proposed EU-Mercosur free-trade agreement.

The protests, ongoing since mid-December 2025, have impacted key transport arteries, with specific blockades reported on motorways such as the A61, A64, A645, N21, and N125 in the southwest. Rail traffic has also experienced disruptions. In the Pyrénées, farmers are blocking access to several ski resorts, a move that operators fear could result in a loss of up to 30% of revenue.

Concerns Over Unfair Competition and Standards

The core of the farmers' discontent stems from fears that the Mercosur deal will lead to unfair competition from cheaper agricultural imports from South American countries. Farmers argue that these imports are not subject to the same stringent environmental, health, and production standards as those within the European Union.

Key concerns highlighted by agricultural unions include:

• The potential use of pesticides banned in the EU in Mercosur-produced goods.
• The environmental impact of deforestation for farmland in South America.
• The import of products like hormone-treated meat, which raises health concerns.

Arnaud Rousseau, president of France's largest agricultural union, FNSEA (Fédération nationale des syndicats d'exploitants agricoles), has been a vocal critic, stating that the agreement 'fails to align with the Paris Climate Agreement and does not guarantee equal production standards.'

Political Response and Deal Postponement

The widespread protests have prompted significant political reactions. French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed concerns about the agreement, stating that France would not approve it in its current form. French Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard has publicly opposed the deal, citing risks of deforestation and health concerns.

France, alongside Italy, has called for a postponement of the vote on the deal until at least 2026. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed on December 19, 2025, that the signing of the EU-Mercosur deal would be delayed 'a few extra weeks to address some issues with member states.' The European Parliament has also approved a safeguard clause to protect EU agriculture from potential harm caused by imports.

Broader Context and Public Support

The current wave of protests intensified following government orders for the culling of cattle herds due to an outbreak of lumpy skin disease. Farmers utilized this moment to amplify their broader grievances, including their opposition to the Mercosur deal. Public opinion in France appears largely supportive of the farmers' actions, with a poll indicating that 58% of French people approve of the roadblocks.