Mercosur, bovine nodular dermatitis, CAP reorientation... farmers' anger expressed from Haute-Garonne to Brussels

Ursula von der Leyen announces the postponement of the Mercosur agreement, sparking anger among French farmers.

SUMMARY

The postponement of the signing of the free trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur has triggered a strong reaction from French farmers, concerned about the sanitary and economic consequences, especially in Haute-Garonne. They call for a revision of the CAP to better protect local sectors.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Postponement to January of the EU-Mercosur agreement signing announced by Ursula von der Leyen.
Mobilization of French farmers against risks related to bovine nodular dermatitis and the trade agreement.
Calls for a reorientation of the Common Agricultural Policy to protect local sectors.

CORE SUBJECT

Mercosur agreement delay and farmers' anger

This is only a respite. On the evening of Thursday, December 18, Ursula von der Leyen informed the leaders of the 27 European Union (EU) countries, gathered in Brussels, of the postponement to January of the signing of the free trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay). This announcement comes amid strong mobilization of French farmers, particularly in Haute-Garonne, who denounce the risks related to this agreement, the spread of bovine nodular dermatitis, and demand a reorientation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Tensions are high between agricultural representatives and European institutions, as the protection of local sectors and health safety are at the heart of the debates. Farmers express their anger through several demonstrations and symbolic actions, emphasizing the urgency of a more protective agricultural policy adapted to current challenges.

KEYWORDS

Mercosur bovine nodular dermatitis Common Agricultural Policy farmers free trade agreement

MENTIONED ENTITIES 4

Ursula von der Leyen

👤 Person_Female

President of the European Commission

European Union

🏛️ Organization

Political and economic organization comprising 27 European countries

Mercosur

🏛️ Organization

South American trade bloc including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay

Haute-Garonne

📍 Location_Country

French department where farmers are protesting

KEY DECISIONS 1

Postponement to January of the signing of the free trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur

Decision Maker: Ursula von der Leyen

Status: announced

Announced: 2025-12-18

Effective: 2026-01

Impact Areas:

international trade agriculture agricultural policy