Waving French flags and setting off smoke flares, protesters marched through central Paris chanting slogans critical of Brussels and condemning the EU-Mercosur trade agreement. Demonstrators accused the European Union of undermining France’s economic independence and eroding national decision-making through what they described as unfair trade deals.

Agriculture emerged as a key flashpoint during the rally, with protest leaders arguing that EU trade agreements disadvantage French farmers while benefiting foreign producers and multinational corporations. Speakers warned that continued participation in such agreements threatens local farming, food security, and rural livelihoods.

The protest comes amid growing euroscepticism in parts of France, fueled by rising living costs, farmer unrest, and broader debates over globalization and sovereignty. While the French government has not responded directly to the demonstration, the rally underscores mounting pressure on European leaders as opposition to EU trade policies gains visibility across the bloc.