Focus on France
France, the fourth largest economy in the world, is an ideal opportunity to conquer the European market. The European Community now counts ten more countries and represents 44.2% of the world Trade (goods and services) and 453 millions consumers. Situated in the middle of these countries, France enjoys genuine economic stability and a strong international reputation in key industrial sectors. With these numerous advantages, France offers a favourable environment to business.
Population: 62,9 millions inhab. / Capital: Paris / Official language : French / Political system: République / President : Nicolas SARKOZY / Prime minister : François FILLON
Agriculture in France
- France has an important cultivable surface: 30 million hectares, more or less 55 % of the total surface of the territory,
- First agricultural power in Europe,
- First producer in the European Union. France’s share of the European production is nearly 23%, whereas the German and Italian share are 15% of the European total.,
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Second world exporter of food-processing products,
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France is the first European producer of cereals, sugar beet, cattle, poultry and wine,
- The agro business sector, generally composed by small businesses, is the 2nd employer of the country,
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The agricultural French developments are very efficient. During the last 25 years, the production increased in 27 % whereas the employments diminished in 50 %.
Territory and population
France, officially the French Republic, is a country whose metropolitan territory is located in Western Europe and that also comprises various overseas islands and territories located in other continents. Metropolitan France extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea and from the Rhine to the Atlantic Ocean. French people often refer to Metropolitan France as “l’Hexagone” because o the geometric shape of its territory. France is bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Andorra and Spain. Due to its overseas departments, France also shares land borders with Brazil and Suriname (bordering French Guiana), and the Netherlands Antilles (bordering Saint-Martin). France is also linked to the United Kingtom by the Channel Tunnel, which passes underneath the English Channel.
