French farmers, led by the hard-line union Coordination Rurale, lifted their blockade on the A9 motorway connecting France and Spain following support from Prime Minister Michel Barnier on November 20, 2024.

Around 200 unionized farmers had blocked access to the Bordeaux port, demanding regulatory simplification and addressing their grievances regarding EU rules.

José Pérez, co-president of CR47, announced the end of the blockade after Barnier acknowledged farmers' concerns about the excessive transposition of EU regulations into French law.

Since November 17, 2024, farmers have been protesting for the reauthorization of acetamiprid, a neurotoxic insecticide banned in France but allowed in other EU countries.

Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard criticized some farmers' protest methods as 'unacceptable,' warning that such tactics could diminish public support for their cause.

FNSEA leader Arnaud Rousseau emphasized the importance of non-violent protest methods while maintaining pressure against unacceptable trade agreements.

Ongoing discussions between state services and protesters aim to resolve the blockade situation swiftly, as authorities recorded significant involvement from farmers across multiple departments.

The Bordeaux port blockade was the last major action by farmers this week, with authorities reporting involvement from over 650 farmers and numerous vehicles across 13 departments.

The blockade was part of a broader protest against low prices and unfavorable conditions for farmers, fueled by concerns over a proposed EU-Mercosur trade deal.

During a phone call with CR representatives, Prime Minister Barnier expressed his commitment to farmers, stating, 'Your Prime Minister knows and respects farmers.'

Farmers' protests have been reignited by fears that the EU-Mercosur trade deal will harm their livelihoods by creating the world's largest free-trade zone.

The protests coincide with upcoming elections for regional Chambers of Agriculture, where smaller unions like Coordination Rurale aim to challenge FNSEA's dominance.