Overview
- Speaking in Belém, Emmanuel Macron said he is "rather positive" about accepting the trade deal while remaining "vigilant," pointing to strengthened safeguard clauses and support for livestock proposed by Brussels.
- French Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard said "the conditions are not met" for France to sign, citing the need for operational safeguards, mirror measures and tighter import controls.
- Major farm unions condemned the shift, with FNSEA calling it a "total betrayal," the Confédération paysanne denouncing a betrayal, and Coordination rurale warning it would mean "the death of agriculture."
- The European Commission adopted the agreement on September 3 and will work with Mercosur to have the safeguards accepted, as Brazil and the EU signalled readiness to sign on December 20 in Rio.
- MEPs are preparing a Court of Justice challenge over the pact’s compatibility with EU law, and critics warn cheaper imports could undercut EU producers, with some beef cuts already 18%–32% cheaper.