### French agriculture: a reflection on the decline of the trade surplus
French agriculture, long considered one of the pillars of the national economy, is going through a period of turbulence. The latest data reveals a marked tumble from the agricultural trade surplus, which increased from a surplus of 8 billion euros in 2021 to only 3.8 billion in 2024. A fall of 50 %, so significant that it not only questions the players in the sector, but also agricultural and environmental policies in France.
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The fact that the agricultural trade balance remains positive is certainly testifies to resilience in the sector, but it would be unlikely to minimize the alert that this represents. The causes of this decline are multiple and deserve a fine analysis. Among these, we can cite an increase in production costs, agricultural practices in matters of sustainability often deemed insufficient, and a change in consumption habits.
By examining the structure of this drop, it is clear that certain product categories are more affected than others. For example, dairy products have experienced stagnation, while cereals and horticulture display disappointing results. This heterogeneity requires taking into account the dynamics of globalization, where less expensive regions can flood the market, undermining French farms.
### Competitiveness challenges
France has recently seen its exports from certain foodstuffs fell, for the benefit of other producing nations, notably in Eastern Europe and South America, which offer more attractive prices. The “Common Agricultural Policy” tab (CAP) which, in theory, supports French farmers, is increasingly criticized for its inability to adapt to contemporary issues. Aid must now become powerful levers to promote sustainable and competitive agrifood production on the international scene.
A comparative study of the value for money for European agricultural products shows that France suffers from an image of a brand associated with high production costs, without a sufficient sale price making it possible to translate these costs into profits. Bureaucratic complexity surrounding environmental or quality standards can also slow down innovation and the adoption of new technologies, essential for the future of the sector.
### towards a reinvention of agriculture
At a time when the consumer is increasingly aware of the challenges related to food, French agriculture must perhaps reinvent their model. The rise of short circuits, the transition to organic farming and agroecological practices represent important opportunities to exploit. Consumers, especially the youngest, turn to ethical and environmentally friendly products, thus creating a new demand to which French agriculture could respond.
Innovation also plays a key role in this transition. Agri-food start-ups are increasing, offering solutions ranging from bioproduction to waste reduction. Investing in research and development could make it possible to resolve old difficulties while anticipating future market trends. Curiously, while digital technology interferes in all sectors, agriculture seems slow to adopt these changes. Big data and the Internet of Objects can indeed offer valuable solutions to optimize production and better manage the supply chain.
#### Conclusion
Faced with this disturbing situation, the reflection on the decline of the French agricultural trade surplus becomes a major issue. The time is no longer to the simple analysis of the figures, but to a deep questioning of the models in place. French agriculture has a challenge before it: not only maintain its trade surplus, but also strengthening it by adopting sustainable practices and opening up innovation.
This will require a concerted effort on the part of players in the sector, public policies and consumers. Not only is the future of the French agricultural landscape, but also of the country’s food sovereignty in a constantly evolving global context.