On a Wednesday morning, approximately 500 tractors have filled the streets of Madrid in a significant protest orchestrated by agricultural unions against the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) set for 2028-2034 and the EU-Mercosur trade agreement. Farmers from across Spain have united under the banner of the Union of Unions of Farmers and Ranchers and the National Union of Independent Primary Sector Associations (Unaspi), expressing concerns that these policies could negatively impact their livelihoods.

The protest began at Plaza de Colón, where around 8,000 participants are expected to march through prominent avenues like Recoletos and Prado, ultimately arriving at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. The culmination of honking tractors represents not only a demand for immediate changes in agricultural policy but also a rejection of international agreements perceived as detrimental to local farmers. As the tractors rolled towards the center, the energy of the protest highlighted the tensions between rural agricultural communities and policy decisions made in urban political centers.

This demonstration reflects wider frustrations within the agricultural sector regarding recent reforms and the challenges posed by globalization. The farmers are calling for modifications to ensure that the new agricultural policies foster sustainability and equity. With significant backing from various agricultural associations, this protest emphasizes the ongoing struggle for agricultural rights in an increasingly competitive commercial landscape, showcasing the importance of grassroots movements in influencing European agricultural policies.