Brussels bypasses French veto: provisional application of Mercosur agreement becomes a fact

The European Commission's decision to initiate the provisional application procedure for the trade agreement with Mercosur countries represents one of the most controversial turns in EU policy in recent years. Ursula von der Leyen justified this haste by citing the need to strengthen Europe's geopolitical position amid global uncertainty. This move allows key provisions on tariff reductions to come into force before final ratification by all national parliaments, effectively neutralizing Paris's previous opposition. President Emmanuel Macron described this action as a "bad surprise" and a blatant disregard for the interests of the French agricultural sector. Farmers gathered at the International Agricultural Show in Paris speak openly of betrayal, fearing the market will be flooded with cheaper food that does not meet EU quality standards. Negotiations on the EU-Mercosur agreement lasted over two decades, with their conclusion repeatedly postponed due to concerns about protecting the Amazon Rainforest and protests from European cattle farmers. In Poland, the mood is exceptionally tense, and the debate focuses on food safety issues. Representatives of the Confederation, including MEP Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik, sharply criticized Brussels, calling the agreement "authoritarian euro-communism" and "an open attack on our health." This criticism is based on reports indicating systemic problems with Brazilian food, including the presence of growth hormones in meat and Salmonella bacteria in imported products. Meanwhile, Anna Bryłka condemns the "tyranny of the European Commission," which she believes is operating on the edge of the law by pushing through international agreements without genuine democratic and parliamentary oversight. This situation intensifies divisions within the Community, pitting geopolitical interests against the security of local agricultural markets. 14 mld € — could be the increase in Italy's trade turnover thanks to the agreement Despite the wave of criticism, some member states see enormous development opportunities in the agreement. Italy predicts that opening up South American markets could increase its trade turnover by over 14 billion euros. The pharmaceutical and wine sectors are expected to benefit the most, with Brazil and Argentina representing extremely promising export destinations. Ireland, despite initial concerns, also sees potential for its exporters. Supporters of the agreement argue that in an era of competition with China and the USA, Europe must build strong trade alliances to avoid losing significance on the global economic stage. The conflict between the interests of national farmers and the EU's global strategy is now entering a decisive phase. „This is a historic step that will secure our economic and political position in an uncertain world.” — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen

Perspektywy mediów: Emphasizes the lack of democratic legitimacy, threat to agriculture, and food sovereignty of France and Europe. Highlights economic benefits, opportunities for wine and pharmaceutical exporters, and the geo-strategic necessity of strengthening the EU.