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Farmers across France and Belgium are protesting against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, fearing it will flood Europe with cheaper South American goods and harm local agriculture. Protests include roadblocks, demonstrations, and clashes with police, coinciding with EU summit debates on trade and Ukraine support. The deal's approval is uncertain.
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On January 9, 2026, EU member states approved the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement after 25 years of negotiation, despite opposition from France, Poland, and others. Italy's support was pivotal. The deal aims to create one of the world's largest free trade zones, boosting exports and reducing reliance on China, but faces protests from farmers and environmentalists concerned about agriculture and deforestation.
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Irish farmers protested against the EU's trade agreement with Mercosur, which aims to create a large free-trade zone. Despite approval from EU ambassadors, opposition from Ireland and France persists due to fears of cheaper imports, especially beef, threatening local agriculture. The deal still requires European Parliament approval.
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The EU and South America's Mercosur have agreed on a trade pact, boosting regional ties amid declining U.S. influence. The deal contrasts with U.S. actions, which include withdrawing from international organizations and pursuing aggressive foreign policies. The agreement reflects shifting global alliances and economic strategies as U.S. influence wanes.
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French parliament rejected two no-confidence motions over the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which was approved despite protests. The motions, led by far-right RN and hard-left LFI, failed to pass, as key parties abstained. The government plans to proceed with the 2026 budget amid ongoing political instability.
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The EU and Mercosur have signed a landmark trade agreement, creating the world's largest free trade zone. The deal aims to lower tariffs, boost regional economies, and diversify trade away from U.S. and Chinese influence. Ratification by EU Parliament and Mercosur legislatures is pending.
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Mercosur's first major trade agreement is set to be signed in Paraguay, with Brazil's Lula absent from the ceremony. Lula's decision to send his foreign minister instead signals possible disappointment over the deal's timing and terms. The pact aims to create one of the world's largest free trade zones, impacting regional and global trade dynamics.