France, Jan. 4 -- French farmers have been protesting over a ​planned European trade deal with the South American Mercosur bloc, and other issues including measures to contain outbreaks of lumpy skin disease which have led to the culling of livestock.

Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard said Sunday that the tighter checks would make sure food coming from ​outside the EU did not include substances banned in food produced in ​the bloc.

A decree would be issued soon announcing the suspension of imports of some food products already known to contain those substances, she added.

"Imports, regardless of from where they come in the world, must comply with our standards. France is setting an example in Europe by issuing this ...