Why are French farmers objecting to EU-Mercosur trade deal?

France is pushing to postpone a European Union vote to ratify a trade deal with the Mercosur bloc of four South American countries, citing concerns about its effects on farmers and ongoing protests at home. The move risks derailing an accord that has been 25 years in the making. The EU’s trade agreement with Mercosur, which comprises Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, was concluded a year ago but still awaits ratification. It is intended to expand access to overseas markets for European exporters struggling with tariffs imposed recently by the United States and rising competition from China. Recommended Stories list…