John Burns: Farmers don't like it, but what about the rest of us, will the Mercosur deal mean cheaper beef?

"Ireland should be licking its lips at the prospect of better access to a market of 280 million people"

"Those of you licking your lips at the prospect of cheaper steaks in restaurants later this year due to the Mercosur deal might want to curb your enthusiasm. The EU trade arrangement with Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay could, in theory, lead to an extra 99,000 tonnes of beef coming into Europe each year."

Mercosur comprises Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay and offers access to roughly 280 million consumers. The EU-Mercosur trade arrangement could allow an extra 99,000 tonnes of beef into Europe each year. Increased imports may lower restaurant and retail beef prices but will also intensify competition for domestic producers. Ireland could gain export opportunities to Mercosur markets while simultaneously facing import pressure into the EU market. Outcomes for Irish agriculture will depend on specific quotas, safeguards, and policy responses that balance export potential with protection for local producers.

Read at Independent