The Spanish People's Party (PP) is expressing serious concerns about the potential implications of their support for the Mercosur trade agreement on their electoral base, particularly in rural areas like Castilla y León and Andalucía. This anxiety has been exacerbated by opposition from Vox, which has rallied against the treaty. Farmers have taken to the streets, with significant protests, including a recent demonstration in Madrid where 500 tractors were mobilized, signaling strong dissatisfaction with the agreement.

The recently approved trade regulations by the European Parliament aimed to safeguard European farmers by introducing protective measures against the potential influx of agricultural products from Mercosur countries—Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay—do not seem to assuage the farmers' discontent. The protesters argue that, despite these protective clauses, the free trade agreement poses a direct threat to local agricultural livelihoods, leading to fears of competition that could undermine their operations.

This situation presents a significant political challenge for the PP as they balance an international trade agenda with the immediate concerns of their rural constituency. The perception of being out of touch with the needs of farmers, particularly in regions where agriculture is a key part of the economy, could have lasting repercussions on their electoral fortunes in upcoming regional elections.