Mr Mandelson wants EPA negotiations concluded by year-end

The EU is engaged in a round of talks with former colonies in the ACP, that it hopes will result in signed agreements by year-end.

EU trade commissioner Peter Mandelson has warned that if that doesn't happen, the ACP states risk losing their preferential access to the European market.

On Thursday protesters in 40 countries staged demonstrations, to show their opposition to the proposed EPAs.

One such demonstration was organised by the Windward Islands Farmers Association (WINFA), in St Vincent.

WINFA coordinator Renwick Rose said there are still a few issues to be addressed before the Caribbean can sign on to the agreement.

"The European Commission itself, five years ago refused to listen to any other alternative, and they proceeded with this deadline," Mr Rose said.

"They have boxed us into a corner and are now threatening doom and gloom from next year."

Mr Rose said while he understood the need to end negotiations, the farmers want to see some concrete commitment in terms of building capacity to take advantage of the market access offer which is being proposed by Europe.

"Everywhere there are the same concerns being raised, so something must be fundamentally wrong," he said.

Mr Rose further stated that they are willing to support the EPA if their concerns are dealt with.

The partnership agreements with separate ACP regions are intended to replace the Cotonou trade and aid pact between the European Union and the ACP group of countries.