France, Jan. 12 -- The European Commission announced on Sunday that the agreement with the South American Mercosur bloc will be signed in Paraguay on 17 January, after EU member states gave the green light on Friday despite objections from several countries, most vocally France.

Supporters of the deal say it is vital for boosting exports, shoring up Europe's economy and strengthening diplomatic ties at a time of global uncertainty.

On the ground, however, the mood among farmers remains combative. Across France, agricultural unions and informal groups have stepped up actions aimed at ports, roads and key logistics hubs, arguing that the treaty would open the door to cheaper imports - especially beef - that they say do not meet the standa...