With Japanese Prime Minister Sinzo Abe in Brussels this Tuesday, there is a feeling that it is now or never for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the EU and Japan. This is one deal that would appeal to Irish and EU farmers as Japan is a huge net importer of agricultural produce (except rice). Agriculture is also thought to be the sticking point that has held up a deal that was close at Christmas.

Mercosur

Meanwhile in Buenos Aires, the latest round of discussions with Mercosur take place. This is less palatable to EU farmers as they will have expectations of significant access to EU markets for agriculture produce, particularly beef which is a real threat to Irish farmers.

The talks with south American countries will take place as a scandal is rocking the Brazilian meat industry.

Parliament

Parliament reconvenes in Brussels this week after last week's sitting in Strasbourg. The Agriculture committee is meeting this Monday and Tuesday, with EU action for sustainability and a report on the trilogue on organic labelling on Monday's agenda. Tuesday's meeting will focus on reducing food waste and improving food safety, where the rapporteur is Northern Ireland MEP Jim Nicholson. The Committee will also debate amendments to the European Commission's regulations on greening payments as well as climate rules on land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF).

Macra will call on European Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan on Wednesday and present its response on the CAP consultation at an event in the Parliament on Thrusday.

More updates through the week on farmersjournal.ie