Browse Data and Analysis

France, as a member of the European Union (EU), generally follows EU directives, regulations, and obligations. This report focuses on food laws in force in France that cover areas which are not EU harmonized.

France's agricultural biotechnology sector is constrained by strict regulations and public opposition, despite the scientific community's support and the growing interest in NBTs. The dialogue on agricultural innovation and food security is evolving, driven by climate change and geopolitical factors, but significant challenges remain.

In 2023, the agri-food market in France was still impacted by inflation, recorded at 3.8 percent. Price increases most severely impacted the lower income strata of society and cut into their ability to purchase. Many consumers are still moving away from big brands to less expensive distributor brands.

France is the world’s leading tourist destination. Revenues are exceeding pre-covid standards since France earned 126 billion in 2023 due to foreign tourism. Commercial catering remains the dominant sector in the HRI industry, holding a 58 percent market share and generating a turnover of $73.3 billion, reflecting a 9-percent increase from 2022.

France’s CY 2014 wine production is estimated at 4.6 billion liters, 12 percent more than the previous year (4.1 billion liters), but still below the record harvest of CY 2011 (5.1 billion liters).

On April 28, 2015, the European Parliament approved the reform of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), which includes a 7 percent cap on food crop based biofuels for the transport sector.

The EU28 grain harvest is now under way in most Member States.

Round 10 of T-TIP Negotiations Held in Brussels July 12-17, 2015 ... Opposition at Council over GMO Proposal ... Hogan Speaks at Expo Milan – Agri-Food Chain Coalition Event ...

Although public opinion in France is generally opposed to products derived from biotechnology, the livestock industry is dependent upon imported genetically engineered (GE) soy and soy meal...

This report provides an overview on the biofuel use mandates in the various EU-28 member states.