As protests from French farmers pick up pace throughout the country, the Spanish are finding themselves at the sharp end of the dispute.
The farmers might be blockading their motorways, but they are directly taking their arguments to Spanish hauliers and companies.
There have been a number of incidents where one of the main borders between Spain and France, at La Jonquera (which passes over the southern Pyrenees), has been blocked by French farmers. In some incidents, Spanish lorries have been stopped and their cargoes destroyed. There has been thousands of euros damage to loads, lorries and equipment.
Cargoes target included wine, vegetables and fruit.
French farmers are incensed that cheaper Spanish goods are undermining their own markets.
The Spanish government has lodged formal complaints, saying the situation is “…absolutely unacceptable.” Whilst the government supports protest, it has to be out violent means, or coercion.
The start of the year is a key period for Spanish exports, directed at France. France also offers a through route to many other countries.
Back in 2023, January witnessed exports of 1,240,000 tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables, which had a value of $1.6bn.