European Farmers Protest High Costs and Cheap Imports, Sparking Government Aid Packages

• European farmers are struggling financially due to high production costs and competition from cheaper imports. This sparked widespread protests seeking government support.

• Consumers want to support local producers but often can't afford the higher prices of domestic foods.

• Governments have pledged financial aid to farmers in response to the protests. The EU also granted concessions.

• Global food commodity prices have fallen from 2022 highs but production costs remain high for European farmers.

• A key complaint is cheaper imports sold at large distribution centers like France's Rungis marketplace, seen as symbolic of globalized food chains.