French farmers block roads, appeal to government for help

French farmers block the A16 highway with their tractors and hay bales to protest over price pressures, taxes and green regulation, grievances that are shared by farmers across Europe, near Beauvais, France, January 23, 2024. REUTERS/Abdul Saboor

CASTELNAUDARY, France (Reuters) -Protesting farmers blocked roads across France on Wednesday to press the government to ease its drive for lower consumer prices and reduce environmental regulations.

Many farmers struggle financially and say their livelihoods are threatened as food retailers are increasing pressure to bring down prices after a phase of high inflation.