Belgium refuses to support France in blocking Mercosur deal

In early December 2024, President Emmanuel Macron reiterated France's opposition to the EU-Mercosur trade agreement during discussions with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Macron emphasized that the current state of the agreement remains 'unacceptable', asserting that it would jeopardize the livelihoods of French farmers. This stance is backed by widespread demonstrations across France, where farmers express concerns that the deal would expose them to unfair competition from South American countries that do not adhere to the same agricultural regulations. These regulations often restrict the use of various pesticides and genetically modified organisms, creating an uneven playing field. Macron's position also aligns with support from Poland, while countries such as Germany and Spain are in favor of the agreement. The opposition from France is seeking to form a blocking minority, which requires support from at least four EU member states that collectively represent over 35% of the EU's population. However, France faces challenges in garnering the necessary support as Belgium, which has been considered a potential ally, announced it would abstain from participating in forming such a minority due to internal disagreements. Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister David Clarinval stated that the lack of consensus among Belgian regions prevents the federal level from taking a united position on the treaty. Clarinval observed that there is a division in support for the deal between Flemish and French-speaking parties in Belgium, complicating any potential solidarity with France's ambitions. This situation underscores the complexities of EU negotiations, where member states have divergent interests that can hinder collective action. As discussions progress, Macron’s continuous efforts appear aimed not only at defending French farmers but also at attempting to reshape the terms of the trade deal to include 'mirror clauses.' These clauses would ensure that competitors in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay adhere to the same regulatory standards as European agricultural sectors. The future of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement remains uncertain, as the negotiations reflect a broader tension between national agricultural interests and overarching trade agreements within the EU framework.