Dozens of French farmers gathered outside President Emmanuel Macron’s second home in Le Touquet on Thursday, parking tractors along the seafront and dumping farm waste as a symbolic protest against the EU-Mercosur trade deal.
Around 50 farmers responded to a union call, following earlier demonstrations in Brussels. While the European Commission has postponed signing the deal until January, unions say the delay is insufficient and continue to demand its cancellation.
Protesters also voiced concerns over potential cuts to EU farm subsidies and planned climate measures that could raise operational costs. Le Touquet Mayor Daniel Fasquelle expressed support, noting that farmers still lack clear guarantees from the government.
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The EU-Mercosur trade deal, negotiated between the European Union and the South American bloc comprising Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, aims to reduce tariffs and open markets for goods such as beef, soy, and automobiles. Farmers across France and other EU nations have long criticized the agreement, fearing that cheaper imports from South America will undercut domestic producers and harm rural livelihoods.
French agricultural unions argue that without stronger safeguards, the deal threatens to weaken the country’s agricultural sector, particularly small and medium-sized farms. Previous protests in Brussels drew thousands of demonstrators, including tractor convoys and road blockades, highlighting deep opposition within the farming community.
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With climate policies adding additional operational pressures, unions say farmers face a “double burden” of economic and environmental challenges. Thursday’s demonstration at Macron’s seaside home underscores growing frustration over what they see as insufficient government support and inadequate negotiation protections.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
