Overview
- European Parliament approved tougher safeguard rules allowing tariffs to be reintroduced on sensitive farm goods if import prices or volumes breach five percent thresholds.
- France demanded a postponement and set three conditions for assent: a strong safeguard clause, application of EU production standards to partners, and tighter import controls.
- The European Commission still aims to sign in Foz do Iguaçu before year-end, pending backing from at least 15 member states representing 65% of the EU population.
- Farmer protests escalated in France as authorities reported at least 3,000 cattle culled due to Lumpy Skin Disease, with new road and rail blockades and plans for tractor demonstrations in Brussels.
- Member states are split, with Germany, Spain and Nordic countries pushing for rapid approval as others voice reservations, while the Commission touts major trade gains including a projected 39% rise in EU exports to Mercosur.