EU member states confirm EU-Mercosur trade agreement as Irish farmers to stage protest in Athlone

"The European Commission, which concluded negotiations a year ago, and countries such as Germany and Spain argue it is a vital part of an EU push to unlock new markets to offset business lost from U.S. tariffs and to reduce reliance on China by securing access to critical minerals. Opponents led by France, the European Union's largest agricultural producer, say the agreement will jack up imports of cheap food products, including beef, poultry and sugar, undercutting domestic farmers."

"Follow the Irish Independent's liveblog: ICSA President says Mercosur trade agreement is 'beyond reckless' Protest over EU-Mercosur deal planned for Saturday in Athlone ANALYSIS: 'Our silence on this is killing us' - last-minute ructions in Fianna Fáil over Mercosur vote Video: What is the Mercosur deal and what does it mean for Ireland? The Irish Independent's View: Climbdown on Mercosur deal will win Ireland no favours in Brussels FACTBOX: What's in the EU-Mercosur trade deal and why is it contentious?"

EU ambassadors provisionally approved the signing of a free trade accord between the EU and Mercosur after more than 25 years of negotiations and months of political wrangling. The European Commission and countries such as Germany and Spain present the deal as crucial to unlock new markets, offset losses from U.S. tariffs and reduce reliance on China by securing access to critical minerals. France and other opponents warn the pact will increase imports of cheap agricultural products, including beef, poultry and sugar, which could undermine domestic farmers. Farmers have launched protests across the EU. Capitals must confirm votes in writing and the accord still needs European Parliament approval; safeguards include import controls and a crisis fund for farmers.

Read at Irish Independent