Farmers lead peaceful rally near Atomium in Brussels over EU-Mercosur trade pact

Hundreds of tractors gathered near the Atomium in Brussels on Sunday as farmers voiced opposition to the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, which they fear will undermine European agricultural standards and livelihoods.

The protest that brought traffic disruption to parts of the capital was led mainly by young farmers from Flanders. Organised by the Flemish group “Ik hou van onze boer(inn)en” (I love our farmers), it said its aim was to send a clear political signal against the agreement while maintaining a calm and respectful atmosphere.

Tractors were parked around the landmark site in Heysel, where participants set up a festive camp, complete with braziers, live music and food stands serving fries.

Farmers say the trade pact with South American countries would expose them to unfair competition, allowing imports produced under looser environmental and animal welfare rules. They argue that this places European farmers at a disadvantage after years of investment to meet stricter EU standards.

“Why have we invested in new machines to minimise chemical use?” Pieter, a farming technician from Merchtem, told The Bulletin. “In Mercosur, they don’t have the same standards.”

Farm unions supporting the protest stressed that the action should remain peaceful, urging participants to avoid violence or vandalism. They said farmers’ frustration reflects deeper concerns about the future of the sector, rising costs and what they see as a growing disconnect between trade policy and agricultural reality in Europe.

The EU-Mercosur agreement which has yet to be fully ratified, remains controversial in several member states. Critics warn of environmental risks and pressure on local farming, while supporters argue it would boost exports, strengthen international trade ties and lower food prices.

Photos: ©Emil Verhulst & Frédéric Perreman