Controversial EU free trade pact signed despite farmer outrage
Posted on: Jan 18, 2026 15:40 IST | Posted by: Rt
The EU and the southward American economical axis Mercosur certain a release trade agreement on Saturday, pushing ahead with the deal despite protests by EU farmers worried about cheap imports and opposition from several member states.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described the deal with the bloc, which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, as a “clear and deliberate choice,” highlighting that the EU “choose fair trade over tariffs,” opting for “a productive long-term partnership over isolation.”
The trade pact comes six months after von der Leyen signed an agreement with US President Donald Trump that imposed a 15% tariff on most EU exports to the bloc’s transatlantic partner.
Earlier this month, Trump pledged to impose additional levies on eight European NATO nations that oppose his plans to acquire Greenland. A 10% levy is expected to take effect on February 1 and rise to 25% in June, remaining in place until a “complete and total purchase” of the Arctic island is realized.
Following 25 years of negotiations, the trade agreement with the Latin American economic bloc won the support of a majority of EU countries, despite opposition from France and Poland, Euroactive reported Saturday. It has faced widespread resistance from the agricultural sector, with farmers across Europe staging massive protests against the deal.
Demonstrations are reportedly set to continue Tuesday in Strasbourg, where some 5,000 farmers and 1,000 tractors are expected outside the European Parliament. A parliamentary vote that could challenge the deal at the EU’s Court of Justice is scheduled for Wednesday.
According to the European Council, the deal will create the world’s largest free trade zone, with a market of more than 700 million consumers. The EU is Mercosur’s second-largest trading partner in terms of goods, accounting for nearly 17% of the bloc’s total trade in 2024. That year, EU exports to Mercosur reached €55.2 billion, while imports from the bloc were €56 billion, yielding a total of over €111 billion – more than 36% growth since 2014.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.