Paris, Nov 20: French farmers intensified their protests on Tuesday over EU-Mercosur trade negotiations, with members of the Coordination Rurale union blocking government buildings, dumping Spanish wine, and spraying slurry on offices.
The protests, which followed Monday’s demonstrations organized by the FNSEA union, reflect widespread discontent over perceived unfair competition and insufficient government support amid poor harvests and disease outbreaks. Farmers have threatened to disrupt food supply chains by targeting ports and retail distribution centers if their demands for immediate measures are not met.
President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his opposition to the trade deal during his South American visit, while the French government announced plans for a parliamentary debate on the issue.
The protests highlight mounting tensions in rural France as farmers warn of dire consequences for local agriculture if the trade agreement moves forward. \