Farmers in Belgium and France are preparing new waves of protests against the potential free-trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc. In Belgium, the Federation of Young Farmers (FJA) has called for blocking actions starting on the evening of Thursday, January 8th and continuing through Friday at key points on the country’s motorway network.
The agricultural union Fugea will join the initiative, citing concerns over unfair competition and market disruptions and health concerns if the deal with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay is signed.
Tractors and other farm vehicles are expected to form roadblocks, mainly in southern Belgium, similar to the major demonstration that drew thousands of Belgian and European farmers to Brussels on December 18th.
Meanwhile, thousands of French farmers are making their way toward Paris, intending to block all major roads into the capital as part of a nationwide protest.
In response to growing discontent, the European Commission offered a financial incentive on January 6th, promising early access to around €45 billion in the 2028–2034 budget to support farmers and rural communities. Meanwhile Germany continues to coax Italy into supporting the Mercosur deal, which the latter says hinges on safeguards and import controls for local farmers
