Sommaire

MERCOSUR: the French Parliament spearheading opposition to the European institutions?

The free trade agreement signed between the European Union and Mercosur on 6 December 2024 represents a major turning point in trade relations between Europe and Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia). The treaty is provoking a lively debate, particularly in France, due to concerns about product quality, environmental impact and economic consequences, especially for the agri-food sector.

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France, along with other Member States, is seeking to influence the ratification process. French parliamentarians seem to be gradually taking up the issue, which could well help France in its dealings with the European institutions.

Aims of the study :

Our study analyses the evolution of French parliamentarians' positions on the EU-MERCOSUR agreement between 2022 and January 2025. In a context marked by political fragmentation and uncertainty over ratification, it provides a clear perspective on the interactions between French institutional players and possible developments at European level.

The study is based on data from Follaw.sv, our institutional and societal monitoring platform, and was carried out by Mélody Mock Gruet, Doctor of Constitutional Law and recognised specialist in parliamentary procedure.

Methodology :

This study analyses the positions taken by French parliamentarians on the EU-MERCOSUR agreement, with a particular focus on agricultural issues. It is based on their parliamentary activity (amendments, questions, bills, minutes, etc.) and their presence on social networks (X, LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky, TikTok).

Key strategic findings :

An evolving consensus :

Although the positions taken by French MPs are basically linked to the ideological positioning of their political party, a growing consensus is emerging on the need to take a stand on the agreement (against the agreement!), even if the actions often remain symbolic (mainly proposals for resolutions and monitoring tools). For the economic players concerned, it is crucial to understand that although the agreement has been signed, its ratification could take different routes, in particular via a vote in the 27 national parliaments. The choice of process will have implications for implementation timescales and the flexibility of trading conditions. In this respect, the evolution of votes on MERCOSUR is interesting: we are seeing a consensus on this issue among parliamentarians, particularly in the National Assembly. Since 2023, every time a motion for a resolution on the subject has been debated, it has been adopted. The most overwhelming expression of support from MPs for the EU-Mercosur trade agreement was during the debate organised by the Government in November 2024.

Opportunities for indirect dialogue with the European institutions:
Parliamentary activity, although modest with only 36 amendments tabled on MERCOSUR between 2022 and 2025 (0.02% of all amendments), has seen an intensification of questions and motions for resolutions since 2023. This shows that parliamentarians are taking up the issue and seeking to influence it, which is a strategic piece of information for the companies affected by this agreement. This increase in power will also strengthen France's influence with the European institutions. Specific monitoring of parliamentary debates will enable the companies concerned to capture crucial information in order to adjust their lobbying strategy.

The involvement of parliamentary leaders:
Members of parliament such as Dominique Potier (PS), Fabien Di Filippo (DR), Jean-François Rappin (LR), Sophia Chikirou (LFI) and Marie Pochon (Ecologiste) stand out for their commitment. For businesses and professional organisations, these figures are key contacts.

Dynamics of social networks and public opinion:
The engagement of parliamentarians on social networks, although indirectly linked to their parliamentary action, reflects a growing interest in the social, environmental and economic impacts of the agreement. Their ability to influence public opinion is a strategic lever, offering new opportunities for partnerships and lobbying.

Conclusion:
The EU-MERCOSUR agreement represents a major issue for businesses, although its future is still uncertain. The French Parliament is playing an active role in indirectly influencing the ratification procedure and shaping discussions on the socio-economic impacts. Understanding these parliamentary dynamics is essential if we are to anticipate developments and seize the best opportunities in this context.

Active monitoring and strategic relations with French and European institutions will therefore be essential if we are not only to understand the ratification process, but also to anticipate the impact on our business and possibly identify commercial opportunities.

If this is a strategic agreement for your sector, let's meet:

A summary of the study is presented here. We are at your disposal for a full presentation and a brainstorming session on possible actions with Mélody Mock Gruet and Erwan de Rancourt (CEO of Saper Vedere) in front of the managers of your organisation but also with your department or Public Affairs Committee. This presentation will be structured as follows: