Belgian Farmers Block Highways Over Mercosur Deal
World
Belgian farmers have blocked several highways in protest against a free trade agreement between the European Union and the South American trade bloc Mercosur. According to the Belga news agency, the demonstrations took place at strategic points across Wallonia, with tractors used to disrupt traffic despite harsh winter conditions.
Local media report that at least 16 major transport interchanges and border crossings were blocked. The protests intensified as the EU is expected to approve the Mercosur trade agreement in the coming days.
Farmers fear an influx of cheaper agricultural products from Latin America, arguing that they are produced under less stringent sanitary and environmental standards. Protesters warn this would reduce sales for European farmers and deepen what they describe as unfair competition.
Although European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has pledged to use funds from the next seven-year budget to support agriculture, farmers remain unconvinced and continue their protests.
Farmers fear an influx of cheaper agricultural products from Latin America, arguing that they are produced under less stringent sanitary and environmental standards. Protesters warn this would reduce sales for European farmers and deepen what they describe as unfair competition.
Although European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has pledged to use funds from the next seven-year budget to support agriculture, farmers remain unconvinced and continue their protests.
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