The European Union is pushing ahead with its controversial trade agreement with South America's Mercosur bloc, provisionally activating the deal this week despite fierce opposition from French farmers and ongoing legal challenges. The move comes after Argentina and Uruguay ratified the pact, with Brazil and Paraguay expected to follow soon.
Why the Fuss?
Farmers across Europe—especially in France—are staging tractor blockades and protests, fearing cheaper South American beef and crops will flood EU markets. 🌽🚜 France's agriculture minister called the EU Commission's decision "very damaging," while lawmakers accuse Brussels of ignoring rural communities.
What’s Next?
The deal, 25 years in the making, will slash tariffs on 90% of goods between the two blocs, linking 700 million consumers. But it still needs final approval from the European Parliament, which sent the agreement to the EU’s top court for review last month. A ruling could take years—meanwhile, provisional terms kick in within two months. ⏳
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen insists the pact offers "countless opportunities" for small businesses, while critics warn it risks undercutting food safety and environmental standards. With tensions simmering, this trade drama is far from over. 🔥
