The French government recently announced that it will further strengthen the inspection of various imported foods to ensure that they comply with EU production standards.

    The Minister of Agriculture pointed out that this move aims to ensure that all imported food entering the French market does not contain pesticide substances that have been banned within the European Union. France will soon issue a decree officially suspending the import of a batch of food known to often contain the above-mentioned prohibited substances.

    It emphasizes on social media that "regardless of where the product comes from, it must meet our standards. France has introduced an unprecedented law targeting over ten types of food, aiming to set an example for Europe. The specific categories involved include melons, apples, apricots, cherries, strawberries, grapes, potatoes, etc. These products can only be sold in France on the premise of not detecting pesticide residues prohibited in the country. Avocados, mangoes, guavas from South America, as well as some citrus fruits from other regions, must also meet the same standards.

    The French Prime Minister has previously made it clear that any imported products found to contain residues of herbicides and fungicides prohibited by the European Union are not allowed to enter the French market. The substances involved include mancozeb, glufosinate ammonium, thiophanate methyl, and carbendazim.

    One of the current focal points of protests by French farmers is the trade agreement proposed by the European Union with the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) in South America. Opponents argue that the agreement may encourage South American goods, particularly beef, that do not meet EU environmental and food safety standards to enter the market at low prices, creating unfair competition. Although Germany and Spain support the trade agreement, opposition within France remains strong.