Overview
- EU member-state representatives backed the trade deal after more than 25 years of talks, with a formal signing planned in Paraguay on January 17.
- Thousands of Irish farmers rallied in Athlone, urging MEPs to reject the pact and warning of an extra 99,000 tons of cheaper South American beef.
- Around 300 farmers with about 120 tractors demonstrated in Austria’s Burgenland, pressing for mandatory origin labels and EU support for agriculture.
- A coordinated star-ride in Germany’s Unterallgäu drew 19 tractors, 37 cars and a lorry, and police reported a peaceful protest despite minor traffic delays.
- Opponents cite risks to food quality, animal welfare and small farms, while industries such as autos and machinery expect market opportunities in Mercosur countries.