16:56 10 January 2026
Expert: Mercosur contract changes food industry in EU
The European Union’s approval of a trade agreement with Mercosur has sparked strong reactions in the agri-food sector. While the planned import volumes are unlikely to disrupt overall EU production, they will increase competition in selected segments, particularly in export-oriented countries such as Poland. The greatest concerns relate to beef, poultry, and sugar imports from South America, where production costs are significantly lower than in the EU. According to BNP Paribas analysts, Polish beef and poultry exporters may face profitability pressure, especially in premium markets. At the same time, food processors could benefit from access to cheaper raw materials, potentially lowering prices of processed foods.
However, farmers and consumers remain worried about unequal regulatory standards, environmental requirements, and effective enforcement of EU quality rules on imported products.
(pb.pl)
