• French farmers protest the EU-Mercosur trade deal, fearing unfair competition.
• Protests include massive tractor convoys in Paris and inspections of imported goods.
• The deal is approved by most EU states, igniting further farmer unrest and government pressure.

French farmers have ramped up their protests against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which they argue threatens local agriculture by incentivizing cheaper South American imports. On Tuesday, farmers drove hundreds of tractors into Paris for the second time in a week, with around 350 tractors reported by police at various sites including the Arc de Triomphe and near the French parliament. The farmers contend that the deal, having recently gained approval from most EU member states despite French objections, will lead to imports of foreign goods that undermine local production standards, as stated by Damien Greffin, vice president of the FNSEA union, who expressed the gravity of their situation, saying, "Farming is going through a crisis like we’ve never seen" according to Reuters and Le Monde.

The protests expanded beyond Paris, with farmers conducting symbolic checks on imported food at locations such as the port of Le Havre, a key logistical hub. Farmers argue that products like beef, which will be imported from Brazil and other South American countries, jeopardize their livelihoods due to price disparities resulting from the trade agreement, which has been in negotiation for over 25 years. "It's hard to swallow such unfair competition," said Justin Lemaitre, a local union leader, emphasizing their discontent with imported products not meeting EU standards according to Reuters and The Local.

Despite claims by supporters that the agreement could enhance exports and strengthen diplomatic ties amidst global economic challenges, the deal has intensified tensions with agricultural stakeholders. Farmers remain resolute in their opposition, organizing additional protests, including a planned demonstration in Strasbourg aimed at urging European Parliament members to reconsider the pact. As the protests continue, the issue remains a pressing concern for both local communities and national policymakers according to Reuters, Le Monde, and The Local.