Paris, France – January 6, 2026 – Tractor convoys are converging on the French capital as farmers escalate their protests against a deepening agricultural crisis. The Coordination Rurale (CR) union has organized a major demonstration in Paris for January 8th, highlighting critical issues facing the sector, including a bovine dermatosis epidemic and concerns over the Mercosur trade agreement.
Farmers’ Demands: Addressing the Dual Crisis
Bertrand Venteau, president of Coordination Rurale, confirmed that “peaceful convoys are being organized to go to the capital.” He anticipates a significant turnout in Paris if police do not block access. The farmers plan to present a comprehensive list of grievances to the Prime Minister, calling for concrete solutions to their financial woes.
Key Concerns:
- Bovine Dermatosis Epidemic: The agricultural sector is grappling with a widespread outbreak of contagious bovine dermatosis (DNC), severely impacting cattle herds and causing substantial economic losses for farmers.
- Mercosur Trade Agreement: Farmers fear that the trade deal with Mercosur countries will lead to increased competition from Latin American agricultural products, further undermining their livelihoods and market stability.
Government Response and Farmer Skepticism
In anticipation of the protests, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu sent a letter to agricultural unions, attempting to de-escalate tensions. However, Venteau expressed skepticism, stating that Lecornu’s letter “answers beside the point on almost everything.”
Disruptions and Regional Mobilization
The mobilization has already caused disruptions across France. On the A7 highway south of Lyon, a blockade initiated by the non-union collective “Les Agris de l’A7” has been in place since 6:30 AM. Approximately forty farmers are protesting the Mercosur treaty, partially blocking the toll booths at Reventin-Vaugris and causing traffic delays in the direction of Marseille. Further blockades are reported on the A43 at Saint-Quentin-Fallavier and on the A51 at Col du Fau, near Grenoble.
Venteau emphasized the peaceful nature of the planned protests, aiming to minimize inconvenience for citizens, many of whom, he noted, are supportive of the farmers’ cause.
Looking Ahead: January 8th Demonstration
The upcoming demonstration on January 8th in Paris is expected to be a pivotal moment for the farmers, as they seek a direct and meaningful response from the government to their urgent demands.
