Thousands of Irish farmers protest against EU-Mercosur trade deal

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseJanuary 10, 2026 at 03:25 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Thousands of Irish farmers protested in Athlone against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, approved by EU states despite opposition from Ireland and France. The farmers fear the agreement, which aims to create a large free-trade area between the EU and Mercosur countries (Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay), will flood the market with cheaper South American agricultural products, particularly beef. They argue this will undercut their livelihoods and disrupt Irish agriculture. The Irish Farmers' Association expressed disappointment and called on Irish MEPs to reject the deal in the European Parliament. Similar protests occurred in Poland, France, and Belgium following the EU's approval. The Irish Prime Minister has voiced concerns that Mercosur beef production may not meet EU environmental standards.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Argentina 40% Paraguay 40% Uruguay 40% Micheál Martin 50% Athlone ×250% Francie Gorman 50% France ×360% Brazil ×260% Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) ×270% Ireland ×680% Mercosur ×890% European Union ×790%

Keywords

eu-mercosur trade deal 100% irish farmers 90% trade agreement 80% agricultural products 70% protests 70% european union 60% mercosur 60% beef imports 50% environmental standards 40%