About sixty tractors and more than 150 farmers kept the C-16 (Llobregat Axis) blocked between Berga and Gironella. The action took place immediately after the European Union gave the green light to sign the agreement with Mercosur (comprising countries like Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay), despite strong agricultural opposition across the continent.
“"The death sentence is already signed. We already had one foot in the grave, and now we have one foot and a half."
Farmers consider the agreement a direct threat, as it will open the door to cheaper products with fewer food safety regulations, increasing unfair competition. The indignation was aggravated by the fact that Spain also voted in favor of the agreement's approval this Friday.
Protesters warned they might intensify actions during the afternoon, considering blocking the road further down from Olvan to prevent traffic from being diverted via the old road (through Cal Rosal). The objective, according to spokespersons, is to raise awareness about the loss of food sovereignty.
