UK farming groups warn that the EU-approved Mercosur trade deal could expose domestic producers to cheaper imports produced to lower standards.

‍

UK farming leaders have voiced renewed concern after EU governments formally approved the long-negotiated Mercosur trade agreement, warning that the deal could place domestic producers at a competitive disadvantage.

‍

The agreement with Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay is expected to expand agricultural imports into the EU under preferential tariff arrangements, including increased access for beef. Farming organisations argue this risks undercutting UK and EU producers who operate under stricter regulatory, animal welfare and traceability standards.

‍

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) said the decision raises fundamental questions about fairness in international trade, particularly at a time when farm margins remain under pressure. The union warned that increased imports produced under different systems could distort markets, weaken price stability and undermine confidence in the food supply chain.

‍

Farming groups across Europe have echoed similar concerns, calling for robust safeguards, equivalent standards checks on imports, and swift intervention if market disruption occurs. The UFU is urging policymakers in Belfast, Dublin and Brussels to ensure that standards are upheld and that farmers are closely involved in assessing the deal’s real-world impact.

‍

Industry representatives have also encouraged consumers to support domestically produced meat by checking labels and backing retailers committed to local sourcing.

Source:Farming UK, This article is a condensed and independently written summary of original reporting and market data from Farming UK, adapted for Dalytrading.co.uk.

‍

‍