Concerns over imported beef, sugar and other agricultural products, including pesticides, have put the long-delayed Mercosur trade deal at risk, prompting EU agriculture ministers to hold urgent talks in Brussels. With a vote expected on Friday, officials are attempting to secure backing from member states that remain hesitant, including Italy and France. These stalled support in December over fears that increased imports would undermine domestic farmers.
The Mercosur agreement, under negotiation for more than two decades, would be the EU’s largest trade deal in terms of tariff reductions. Supporters argue it would boost European exports, reduce dependence on China and improve access to critical raw materials, while strengthening the bloc’s global trade position.
What’s not to like?
Despite this, progress remains uncertain: resistance persists among farming nations concerned about market competition, price pressures and regulatory standards. Ministers are discussing possible reassurances linked to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), importantly including income support and crisis funding, alongside safeguards intended to ensure imported goods comply with EU health, environmental and animal welfare rules.
Several member states remain opposed. Poland and Hungary have indicated they do not support the agreement in its current form, citing concerns about unfair competition for farmers and the impact of imports produced under different regulatory regimes. In Poland, opposition has been reinforced by widespread farmer protests calling for stronger protection measures and compensation mechanisms.
France has also emerged as a leading critic, warning that the deal could weaken European agricultural standards, particularly in sensitive sectors such as beef and poultry. Paris has pressed the European Commission to strengthen import controls and guarantees on pesticide use and animal welfare.
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Key position
Italy’s stance is viewed as decisive. While Rome is not opposed in principle, officials have sought clearer assurances on reciprocity and enforcement, including confirmation that imports of beef, sugar, poultry, pork and soy will meet EU standards. Securing Italy’s support could prove critical to reaching the qualified majority required for approval, representing at least 15 member states and 65 per cent of the EU population.
A statement or formal vote on the Mercosur agreement is expected by Friday, 10 January, underscoring the urgency of the negotiations. EU officials have described the talks as a final effort to bridge divisions between agricultural concerns and the bloc’s wider trade ambitions.
Mercosur… or still not sure?
If approved, the deal would expand market access for European exporters while retaining safeguards for domestic producers. While farmer concerns often centre on beef and sugar, they extend across multiple sectors, with fears focused on price pressures and market disruption rather than unrestricted import volumes. Tariff-rate quotas and safeguard clauses are designed to limit potential damage to EU agriculture.
