Tensions are rising among EU farmers' associations and rural cooperatives over the proposed Mercosur trade agreement.

At a recent Presidium meeting, representatives from national delegations expressed concerns and some even rejected the agricultural aspects of the deal.

The new EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Christophe Hansen, attended the discussions, where Iberian representatives took a more cautious approach due to their close trade ties with Brazil.

Many farmers' groups argue that the agreement is unbalanced, citing differences in production standards and criticizing the lack of adequate compensation and emergency mechanisms.

They also raised concerns about the EU Commission's compensation fund, which they deemed insufficient.

Negotiations are scheduled to resume in Montevideo on December 5 and 6.

The Bavarian Farmers' Association has reiterated its opposition, while the Badische Landwirtschaftliche Hauptverband plans a vigil against the agreement in Freiburg on December 5.