Macra condemns EU–Mercosur Trade Agreement as a serious blow to Irish Agriculture and Young Farmers

Macra has expressed grave concern and deep disappointment following confirmation that the EU–Mercosur trade agreement has been accepted, despite Ireland opposing the deal at EU level.

While Macra acknowledges the Government’s decision to reject the agreement, today’s outcome underlines the significant challenges facing Irish agriculture when national concerns are overridden at European level. The deal raises serious issues around fairness, regulatory alignment and the cumulative impact of trade agreements on farm viability.

The implications for young farmers are particularly acute. Many are in the early stages of their careers, making long-term investment decisions while operating under some of the highest environmental, animal welfare and traceability standards in the world. Exposure to increased imports produced to lower standards risks further undermining confidence in farming as a viable future for the next generation.

Macra believes this decision sends a damaging signal to young people being encouraged to commit to farming and rural enterprise, while facing ongoing income pressure and regulatory demands. It also raises fundamental questions about the coherence of EU trade policy with stated ambitions on sustainability, climate action and generational renewal.

"Our young farmers operate to the highest standards of animal welfare, traceability and environmental protection, producing a safe, high-quality product for Irish consumers. The approval of the Mercosur Trade Agreement fundamentally undermines these efforts, placing young farmers at a competitive disadvantage and threatening the viability of their farm businesses. The consequences extend far beyond the farm gate, putting the future of farming and the fabric of rural Ireland itself at risk" stated Macra President Josephine O'Neill 

Macra is calling on the Government to urgently outline how Irish farmers, and young farmers in particular, will be protected and supported in light of this decision, and to pursue all available measures to mitigate the impact on Irish agriculture. The organisation also continues to urge Irish MEPs to vote against the trade agreement in the upcoming Parliamentary vote to guarantee a future for young farmers and rural communities.