Mercosur Trade Deal Raises Concerns Over Irish Food Standards

Concerns are mounting within Ireland’s agri-food sector that the proposed Mercosur trade agreement, alongside other free trade deals, could undermine food standards and place domestic producers at a disadvantage, according to commentary reported by the Irish Independent.

Industry voices warn that imported grain and soya, which form the backbone of animal feed, are produced under regulatory regimes that may differ significantly from Irish and EU standards. As feed quality and production rules are directly linked to the safety and integrity of meat, milk and eggs, critics argue that lower arable standards abroad risk feeding through the entire food chain.

---

Source article: Irish Independent | 27 December 2025

Sheep Numbers Down 20% Yet Factories Cut Prices, Says ICSA

22 December 2025 | Ireland

The ICSA has criticised meat factories for cutting lamb prices despite sheep numbers reportedly being down 20%. The group says reduced supply is not being reflected in farmgate returns and has called for clarity on Ireland’s stance on the Mercosur trade deal.

Farmers warn that continued price pressure risks accelerating the decline in sheep production.

---

Source article: Farming.co.uk / ICSA