The Commission and proponents such as Germany and Spain say the Mercosur deal offers a way to offset the loss of trade due to tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump and to reduce reliance on China, notably for critical minerals. The Commission said it would closely monitor imports and also planned a 6.3 billion euro ($7.38 billion) crisis fund for EU farmers. French Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin said on X that the safeguard clause was a step in the right direction. European farmers have repeatedly protested over the Mercosur deal, saying it would lead to cheap imports of South American commodities, notably beef, that do not meet the EU's green and food safety standards. They also point to agricultural benefits, given the deal would offer greater access and lower tariffs for EU cheeses, ham and wine.