France has suspended imports of South American fruits detected with pesticide residues banned in Europe, escalating tensions ahead of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement signing scheduled for January 12. The move, aimed at protecting local farmers, follows December's postponement and intensifies opposition to the deal.
Building on the December 2025 postponement of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement—driven by French and Italian resistance amid farmer protests—Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on January 4, 2026, a suspension of imports for South American products containing residues of banned pesticides like mancozeb, glufosinate, thiophanate-methyl, and carbendazim.
The measure targets fruits and vegetables including avocados, mangos, guavas, citrus, grapes, apples, melons, cherries, strawberries, and potatoes. Lecornu communicated this via an open letter to farmers and a post on X, with border controls to be strengthened by a specialized inspection brigade.
A decree, led by Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard, is set for publication on January 6, pending European Commission approval within 10 days. France, a key opponent due to its farmers' lobby concerns over competition in meat, rice, honey, and soy, had previously delayed the signing with Italy's support.
Brazilian President Lula da Silva, whose Mercosur presidency was marred by the earlier delay, has engaged Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to reschedule. Brazil warns of abandoning talks if delays persist, while exploring deals with Canada, Japan, the UK, and Indonesia. The agreement still awaits European Parliament ratification.