On November 17, 2024, President Emmanuel Macron of France met with Argentina's President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires, where he defended France's opposition to a proposed EU-South America trade deal. Macron emphasized the need to protect French agriculture from an influx of cheap beef from Brazil and Argentina, a concern that resonates with the ongoing discussions about agricultural policies in Argentina [730f13c5]. This meeting comes as Milei faces growing impatience from Argentina's powerful farmers regarding his promise to eliminate export taxes and improve the agricultural sector's competitiveness [231173b2].
Macron's visit occurred ahead of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, where both leaders are set to participate. During their discussions, Macron expressed concerns about Milei's climate skepticism, particularly following Milei's decision to withdraw Argentina from UN climate talks [730f13c5]. Macron aims to persuade Milei to support international consensus on climate issues, which is critical as the agricultural sector is significantly impacted by climate change [730f13c5].
As President Milei's administration progresses, farmers are still grappling with currency controls, high inflation, and export taxes that have historically drained resources from the agricultural sector [231173b2]. Despite being one of the largest livestock and grain producers globally, Argentina's farmers are frustrated with the current economic measures that hinder their competitiveness and threaten their livelihoods [231173b2].
The Argentine Rural Confederation has criticized the government's failure to address unfair taxes on agricultural exports, and farmers are seeking clarity and relief as they await better economic conditions and the fulfillment of Milei's promises [231173b2]. Macron's defense of French farmers highlights the complexities of international agricultural trade and the challenges faced by leaders like Milei in balancing domestic agricultural interests with international pressures [730f13c5].