French Farmers Continue Protests With Blockades Despite Declining National Turnout

Agricultural minister Annie Genevard visits Pas-de-Calais as farmers protest trade policies, import standards, and supermarket practices.

Farmers, led by the Coordination Rurale, have blocked key logistical hubs, including the Port of Bordeaux and supermarket supply centers, to protest trade agreements and import standards.
The protests have seen reduced participation nationwide compared to earlier in the week, though targeted actions persist in regions like the South-West.
Minister of Agriculture Annie Genevard reaffirmed the government's opposition to the Mercosur trade deal, aiming to form a blocking minority within the EU, though success remains uncertain.
Protesters criticize imported agricultural goods for not meeting French standards and accuse supermarkets of exploiting farmers with excessive profit margins.
The FNSEA, a major agricultural union, announced additional demonstrations next week, focusing on trade policies and challenges facing French farmers.