Ireland Rejects Mercosur Beef Deal
Ireland Rejects Mercosur Deal as Beef Industry Raises Alarm
Ireland has confirmed it will vote against the EU–Mercosur trade agreement, a move welcomed by Meat Industry Ireland.
The industry body has long warned the deal could cost the Irish beef sector up to €130 million, citing unfair competition from South American imports produced under different animal welfare, environmental, and food safety standards.
Concerns were sharpened further by a recent recall of Brazilian beef from the Irish market after banned growth hormones were detected, raising fresh questions over enforcement and regulatory equivalence.
The Irish government’s stance sends a strong signal that domestic producers and food standards will not be traded off for market access.
Source: Business Plus | 8 January 2026
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