Mercosur: the final shovel of dirt on the Portuguese field

Portugal's entry into the European Economic Community promised modernization and prosperity, yet four decades later, rural areas face decline. The EU-Mercosur agreement threatens to exacerbate this situation by opening markets to South American exports, undermining local agriculture. The Common Agricultural Policy favored larger European farms, neglecting Portugal's smallholdings, leading to a reliance on imports. While the government sees opportunities in the agreement, many local producers will struggle against cheaper imports. This shift not only impacts the economy but also national sovereignty and food security. The agreement awaits EU judicial review, providing a chance for Portugal to demand better protections for its agriculture.