Editorial: Le Monde

• The agricultural crisis that resurfaced in 2024 has left unsatisfactions and threatens with new wrath in France.
• The free trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur countries is a major concern for farmers and breeders, worrying them about unfair competition.
• 600 French parliamentarians argue that the deal is incompatible with the Paris climate agreement and could accelerate deforestation.
• The lack of adequate controls on imported products exposes French agriculture to standards that are less demanding.
• The opposition to the Mercosur agreement is widespread in France, from the government to the president.
• France has struggled to take this issue to the European level and garner support to block the agreement.
• Many state members would argue denying this deal would be dangerous, especially in Trump's era of protectionism and the possibility of China capitalizing.
• France is weakened by the looming social crisis and the worn-out agricultural model, which restricts its sway over the debate.

Conclusion: If Brussels decides to ignore Paris's opinion, this would mark an unprecedented setback for France's weight in Europe, and might foster an anti-EU sentiment in France.

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