France: National oil refinery blockade June 10-12 /update 1

Event

The FNSEA farmer union began erecting roadblocks around oil refineries, oil depots, and ports throughout the country on Sunday evening, June 10. As of Monday morning, numerous roadblocks have been reported, including in Vatry, La Mède, Gonfreville-l'Orcher, Le Havre, Grandpuits, Donges, Feyzin, Dunkirk, Grigny, Coignières, Gennevilliers, Strasbourg, Cournon, Lyon, and Toulouse. The roadblocks are currently expected to remain in place through at least Tuesday, June 12.

The protest could lead to shortages of gasoline and diesel at service stations nationwide, particularly if it continues past June 12. 

Context

The action has been called to protest government plans to increase imports of palm oil to be used in the production of bio fuel, which would compete with France-grown canola. The government has called the action illegal.

Advice

Individuals in France are advised to follow developments to the situation and to fill up gas tanks when possible as a precaution.