Madrid – The Spanish Federation of Associations of Producers and Exporters of Fruits and Vegetables (FEPEX) has issued renewed warnings regarding the potential consequences of the recent trade agreement between the European Union and Morocco. The federation’s concerns center on the inclusion of products originating from the occupied Western Sahara within the scope of the agreement.
In a statement released Tuesday, FEPEX urged the European Parliament to reject the agreement, arguing that it violates rulings from the European Court of Justice and poses a significant threat to the European agricultural sector. The federation emphasized the need to protect European farmers from unfair competition and to ensure that all trade agreements adhere to international law and respect human rights.
“This agreement, as it stands, undermines the principles of fair trade and jeopardizes the livelihoods of European farmers,” a spokesperson for FEPEX stated. “We call on the European Parliament to carefully consider the implications of this agreement and to vote against its ratification.”
The controversy surrounding the EU-Morocco trade deal highlights the complex geopolitical and economic considerations involved in international trade relations. Critics argue that the inclusion of products from Western Sahara effectively legitimizes Morocco’s occupation of the territory, while proponents maintain that the agreement is beneficial for both the EU and Morocco, fostering economic growth and stability.
The European Parliament is expected to vote on the agreement in the coming weeks. The outcome of the vote will have significant implications for the agricultural sectors in both Europe and Morocco, as well as for the ongoing dispute over Western Sahara. The debate surrounding the agreement is likely to continue, with various stakeholders voicing their concerns and advocating for their respective interests. DZWatch will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
