January 8, 2026
French farmers blockaded several sites in Paris to protest against a free trade agreement between the European Union and the South American bloc Mercosur. The protest comes ahead of a vote for the deal on 09 January. Farmers have raised concerns that the deal would create unfair competition due to the import of cheaper goods. Additionally, they are also demanding better government response to cattle diseases. Traffic was disrupted as tractors obstructed highways leading to the capital, including the A13 highway. Vehicles were also parked on the Seine bank, blocking access to the city centre.