The French chain has expressed its commitment to agricultural unions in light of the conclusion of the agreement between the EU and Mercosur.

The Brazilian government has expressed its opposition to statements by Carrefour's CEO, Alexandre Bompard, regarding meat produced by Mercosur countries, who has pledged not to sell it in solidarity with French agricultural unions in view of the possibility of a trade agreement between the EU and the South American bloc.

"We understand the anger of farmers at this possible agreement (...). In response to this concern, Carrefour wants to join forces with the agricultural world and undertake not to sell any meat from Mercosur," said the head of the French chain last Wednesday.

In a response statement, the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has reiterated the quality and commitment of Brazilian agriculture to legislation and good agricultural practices, in line with international guidelines.

According to him, the Ministry's rigorous Agricultural Defense system guarantees the country the position of largest exporter of beef and poultry in the world, maintaining commercial relations with approximately 160 countries, complying "with the most rigorous standards", even for the European Union, which buys and certifies, through its health authorities, the quality and health of meat produced in Brazil for more than 40 years.

He also reiterated that Brazil has one of the most rigorous environmental laws in the world and operates transparently in the sector, demonstrating its commitment to "traceable and transparent" production, with private models widely recognized and approved by European markets.

The Government has therefore deplored Carrefour's stance, which, for protectionist reasons, negatively influences consumer understanding "without any technical criteria to justify such claims."

The Ministry's position is not to believe in a move orchestrated by French companies aimed at hindering the formalisation of the Mercosur-European Union Agreement, discussed at the G20 summit this week. "This Ministry will not accept vain attempts to tarnish or undermine the recognised quality and safety of Brazilian products and Brazilian environmental commitments," it said.

Once again, the Ministry reiterates the commitment of Brazilian agriculture to the quality, health and sustainability of food produced in Brazil to contribute to food and nutritional security worldwide.