Spanish agricultural organizations have voiced a deep rejection of the recent EU-Mercosur trade agreement, which was announced to enter into provisional effect following ratifications from Argentina and Uruguay. They argue that the deal jeopardizes both local products and the safety of food for consumers in Spain. The sentiment reflects concerns that increased imports from Mercosur countries could undermine local agriculture, potentially leading to price reductions and market instability for Spanish farmers.

While certain sectors such as wine, oil, meat, and fruits show some optimism about the prospects for trade under the agreement, they stress the need for guaranteed reciprocity in tariffs and support for the most affected products. The Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food points out that the agreement creates a common market of 700 million people—amounting to 10% of the global population and 25% of the world’s GDP. This presents both opportunities and significant challenges for Spanish agricultural producers, who fear being overwhelmed by imports that do not meet their standards of safety and sustainability.

Before the agreement is fully enacted, it requires ratification by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU. This process provides a window for further debate and potential modification of the deal, particularly as Spanish agricultural groups ramp up their advocacy efforts to highlight the risks associated with the agreement. The outcomes of these discussions may significantly impact the future of agriculture and food safety in Spain, as well as the wider EU trade policy.