French farmers launched new protests Tuesday against a proposed deal between the EU and the four South American countries of the Mercosur trade bloc. The French government is strongly opposed to the deal but protesters want French President Emmanuel Macron to do more to help amid rising discontent over foreign competition.

Italy's main agriculture unions oppose the trade deal, fearing that South American imports would undermine farmers' livelihoods.

A controversial trade deal between the EU and South America's Mercosur bloc is back in the spotlight with rekindled optimism that the two sides could conclude an agreement before the year is over.On the South American side,

France’s powerful farming unions are taking to the streets again to seek more government support and rally against a European Union free trade deal with Latin American producers seen allowing in cheaper goods.

French farmers are mobilizing for widespread protests Monday, targeting the controversial EU-Mercosur trade agreement

French farmers planned on Tuesday to step up their protests against a proposed trade pact between the European Union and four South American countries, saying it threatens their livelihoods.Farmers fear any agreement would open European Union markets to cheaper meat and produce from South American competitors,