After many years of negotiations, the Mercosur deal is near to conclusion. When the concessions on beef imports were given, European beef producers were in a completely different scenario from the one they are in today. Brexit will make the European Union 116% self-sufficient in beef, while climate change will pose significant challenges to sustainable food production in Europe. European beef producers cannot understand how South American beef could be allowed into Europe to displace European products.

The Government shares the Deputy’s concerns about the Mercosur trade deal, particularly the volumes envisaged, the product mix, as well as environmental concerns. We have been active in communicating these concerns to all parties involved and building alliances with other Europe Union member states. Concern is escalating, but the negotiations have not yet been brought to a conclusion.