Mercosur Deal Threatens Greek Rice Industry's Survival

Rice growers in northern Greece face significant challenges due to the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which permits importing duty-free rice from South America. Greek producers, already burdened by rising costs and droughts, fear being outcompeted. Some farmers are abandoning rice cultivation in search of alternative employment.

In northern Greece, rice growers are grappling with fears that an EU-Mercosur trade agreement could shutter their businesses for good. This controversial deal allows duty-free rice imports from South America's Mercosur nations, threatening the already struggling Greek rice industry.

Greece ranks as Europe's third-largest paddy rice producer, exporting much of its 240,000-ton yield. However, Greek farmers are already squeezed by production costs and drought, with some joining national protests over delayed EU aid. Menelaos Koukourdis, a leading grower, notes plummeting prices due to cheap imports, and warns about the looming challenge from Mercosur.

The European Commission argues that imported quantities will only slightly affect the market, while Greece asserts the deal offers access to new markets. However, many Greek rice farmers are abandoning agriculture for other jobs amidst overwhelming competition and shifts in agricultural practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)