Farmers across the European Union have repeatedly voiced concerns about foreign competition and the future of their livelihoods. On December 18th, they gathered in Brussels during an EU summit to protest the proposed free trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay).
Concerns Over Standards
Elli Tsiforou, Secretary-General of COPA-COGECA – the umbrella organization for EU farmers and agri-cooperatives – explained the core of the farmers’ worries. While acknowledging that all trade agreements involve both gains and losses, she characterized the issue with Mercosur as “strategic,” centering on a significant “divergence of standards.”
Tsiforou stated that the gap between EU standards and those currently practiced in Mercosur countries is “enormous,” a situation her organization finds unacceptable. She warned that this issue extends beyond the Mercosur agreement, potentially impacting future trade deals if the European Commission doesn’t adequately consider the agricultural sector.
Safeguards Deemed Insufficient
Despite efforts by Members of the European Parliament to strengthen safeguards within the agreement, Tsiforou believes they are inadequate. She argued that a “defensive mechanism” cannot resolve the fundamental issue of differing standards, asserting that Mercosur countries must commit to aligning with EU standards.
Budget Cuts and Policy Shifts
Farmers are also apprehensive about the future of EU agricultural policy. Tsiforou expressed dissatisfaction with the European Commission’s plans for the long-term EU budget, citing proposed cuts of 20 percent – before factoring in inflation – and a radical restructuring of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
She warned that a shift to 27 separate national agricultural policies could severely impact the internal market, the food chain, and rural areas. Furthermore, Tsiforou indicated that current efforts to reduce bureaucracy for farmers are not yielding positive results, with farmers experiencing a “peak” in the burden of EU legislation.
What Could Happen Next
If the European Commission proceeds with the proposed budget cuts and CAP restructuring, further protests from farmers are likely. The EU Parliament could attempt to amend the proposals, but the Commission ultimately holds significant power in shaping the final policy. It is also possible that negotiations with Mercosur could be revisited, though a commitment from Mercosur countries to adopt EU standards appears, based on Tsiforou’s statements, to be a major sticking point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern farmers have with the Mercosur agreement?
The primary concern is the significant difference in standards between the EU and Mercosur countries, which farmers believe creates unfair competition.
Are the safeguards put in place by the EU Parliament enough to protect farmers?
According to Elli Tsiforou, the safeguards are not sufficient to address the core issue of differing standards.
What changes to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) are farmers worried about?
Farmers are concerned about proposed budgetary cuts of 20 percent (excluding inflation) and a restructuring of the CAP that could lead to the “renationalisation” of agricultural policy.
Given the strong concerns raised by COPA-COGECA, how might the EU balance the interests of its agricultural sector with its broader trade ambitions?
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