The protests of farmers from neighboring countries in France continue to cause conflict on the roads, as they get closer to Paris and aim to block access to the capital. Despite the attacks they receive, the Ministry of Transport and the Government have not publicly defended the farmers or responded to their requests for information about their actions. Only the head of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, commented on the situation, refuting allegations of “unfair competition” made by the French Prime Minister against countries like Spain and Italy.
Meanwhile, ASTIC, ACE, and CETM have once again approached Óscar Puente, urging the Government to intervene immediately to protect professionals, vehicles, and merchandise. The organizations highlight the disregard of insurers for losses caused by the protests and the burden placed on truckers to clean up highways after their trucks are raided. The damage extends beyond the transport sector, impacting businesses that rely on truck transportation for their goods.
The significance of this conflict is evident in the volume of Spanish exports to the EU, with 75% leaving the country by truck. Half of these exports pass through France, making the protests particularly disruptive. ASTIC has advised its associates not to travel due to safety concerns, emphasizing the substantial financial losses incurred by truckers each day. The CETM estimates losses to be around 12 million euros daily, not including damage to vehicles or destroyed merchandise.