Farmers’ Protest in France Leads to Arrests and Traffic Disruptions

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1–2 minutes

Local sources from France: 20 Minutes, Sud Ouest.
UK coverage: The Telegraph.

A group of farmers in France broke into the Rungis wholesale food market in Paris, leading to the arrest of 79 individuals. The farmers were protesting against low pay, excessive regulations, and unfair competition from foreign rivals. Despite warnings from the government, the protesters managed to enter the market, although they claim no damage was caused. The farmers were forcibly removed by riot police and arrested for ‘damaging goods.’ The European Commission has responded to France’s demands regarding the relaxation of fallow land obligations and the limitation of Ukrainian agricultural imports. Brussels proposed granting a partial exemption from fallow land obligations and limiting uncontrolled increases in Ukrainian agricultural imports. In response to the protests, Brussels also announced an ’emergency brake’ for ‘sensitive’ products to limit import volumes. The protests have caused significant traffic disruptions across France, with blockades on several major highways. In Ile-de-France, eight highways are affected by blockades and partial closures. In the Southwest, the A63, A89, and A10 highways are blocked by angry farmers. Lyon and Nantes also face traffic difficulties due to blockades. The protests have gained international attention, with farmers from Belgium and Italy joining the demonstrations. The situation remains tense as farmers continue to demand fair income and relief from burdensome regulations.