French farmers hold protest in Paris against EU-Mercosur trade deal Paris

January 13, 2026

New Delhi: For the second time in a week, French farmers entered Paris on Tuesday with around 350 tractors, protesting against the European Union’s proposed EU-Mercosur trade agreement and low incomes. Under police protection, the farmers entered the city from Porte Dauphiné in the morning, passed through major areas like the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées, crossed the Seine River, and reached the National Assembly.

The protest was led by the FNSEA farmers’ union and the ‘Jeune Agriculture’ (Young Farmers’ Association). Posters on the tractors read, “No farmers, no country” and “No farmers, no food.” The demonstration coincides with the signing of the trade agreement in Paraguay on Saturday.

Cheap imports threaten farmers’ livelihoods

Farmers across Europe are protesting the agreement because it threatens to bring cheap agricultural products from Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay into the European market, harming local farmers. Although France, Hungary, Austria, Poland, and Ireland opposed it, most EU countries approved the agreement last week.

Earlier, on January 8, farmers demonstrated in central Paris with approximately 100 tractors. Many protesters then broke through police barricades and reached the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.

Government announces €300 million aid package for farmers

The French government has attempted to provide relief amid farmers’ anger. Government spokesperson Maud Brezon said that discussions are ongoing on issues related to farmers’ income, water problems, and climate change. Agriculture Minister Anne Genevard has announced a 300 million euro aid package for farmers.

This package includes support for crops and livestock, water management, disease control, and assistance to the viticulture, fruit, vegetable, and protein sectors. The government says these measures are aimed at protecting French agriculture and preparing it for future challenges.