Trade
Farming body hits out at spirits companies for supporting Mercosur deal
ICMSA described the Irish Whiskey Association's position as “self-centred”
A fresh war of words has erupted between Irish cattle farmers and drinks companies over the EU’s Mercosur trade deal with South American nations.
The Mercosur deal is vehemently opposed by farmers but, on Tuesday, James Doherty, the chair of the Irish Whiskey Association, called for it to be ratified quickly to create more export opportunities.
On the same day, a joint statement by SpiritsEurope, which has Diageo and Pernod Ricard as members, also called for a swift conclusion to the deal. These comments followed the longstanding stance of the sector in support of a quick resolution of the deal.
