Mercosur: Farmers and Consumers Discuss Product Quality Concerns

Agricultural organizations and the Consumer Association are joining forces to address the Mercosur agreement, despite its referral to the European Court of Justice. Their aim is to highlight the potential consequences for the primary sector in Cyprus and protect consumer health.

At a scheduled meeting, they will discuss the agreement's impact on the economy and health, as well as ways to protect the nutritional culture. Virginia Christou, legal advisor to the Consumer Association, expressed concerns about product quality and inspection deficiencies.

Christou stated that health services admitted that products are placed on shelves before test results are released, raising fears for consumer health. She also emphasized the lack of an impact study on the agreement's effect on the agricultural sector.

The organizations are planning next steps in cooperation with the Government and the European Commission. The referral of the agreement to the European Court of Justice is considered a positive development.

Imported products include beef, coffee, oil, and soybeans. A serious issue being raised is the use of pesticides and their effects.