Farmers from the Boerenbond union are protesting in Brussels against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, demanding the protection of local production.

On Thursday, farmers and animal breeders from the Flemish union Boerenbond organized a protest in front of the European Parliament in Brussels, setting up a stand with fried potatoes to promote local production.

They called on MEPs to oppose the trade agreement with Mercosur, which they consider 'unfair', arguing that it will negatively affect the Belgian agricultural sector by competing with imported products of inferior quality. The protest included offering traditional Belgian dishes, highlighting the importance of consuming local products. Farmers also criticized the reduction of funds for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and inadequate European regulations. Their actions are motivated by fears related to the signing of the EU-Mercosur agreement, which could take place on January 12.

Union members discussed with European parliamentarians, including Hilde Vautman, who acknowledged the imbalance of the agreement and emphasized the need for fair conditions for European producers.