Required Report - public distribution

**Date:** 10/17/2006

**GAIN Report Number:** FR6063

FR6063

**France**

**Exporter Guide**

**ANNUAL**

**2006**

**Approved by:**

![](media/image1.wmf)Elizabeth B. Berry

U.S. Embassy

**Prepared by:**

Roselyne Gauthier

**Report Highlights:**

Socio-economic and demographic changes have altered food trends in
France. Trends show that French consumers desire food products offering
better taste, increased health benefits and more convenience.

France offers market opportunities in a number of areas such as fish and
seafood, processed fruits and vegetables, including fruit juices,
beverages including wine and spirits, fresh and dried fruits and nuts,
but also confectionery, wild rice, kosher and halal foods.

This report prepared by the USDA\'s Foreign Agricultural Service for
U.S. exporters of food and agricultural products presents a
comprehensive guide on France\'s economic situation, market structure,
exporter tips and best prospects for high-value food and agricultural
products.

Includes PSD Changes: No

Includes Trade Matrix: No

Unscheduled Report

Paris \[FR1\]

\[FR\]

Table of Contents

[SECTION I. MARKET OVERVIEW 3](#section-i.-market-overview)

[1. Macroeconomic Situation 3](#macroeconomic-situation)

[2. French Agricultural Production and Consumption
3](#french-agricultural-production-and-consumption)

[3. Key Demographic Developments 4](#key-demographic-developments)

[4. Changing Food Trends 5](#changing-food-trends)

[SECTION II. EXPORTER BUSINESS TIPS
6](#section-ii.-exporter-business-tips)

[1. Trade Barriers and Restrictions 6](#trade-barriers-and-restrictions)

[2. Consumer Tastes, Preferences and Food Safety
6](#consumer-tastes-preferences-and-food-safety)

[3. Marketing Strategies for the French Market
7](#marketing-strategies-for-the-french-market)

[4. General Import and Inspection Procedures
9](#general-import-and-inspection-procedures)

[General Import Requirements 9](#general-import-requirements)

[Basic Labeling/Packaging Requirements:
9](#basic-labelingpackaging-requirements)

[Customs Process 10](#customs-process)

[SECTION III. MARKET SECTOR STRUCTURE AND TRENDS
10](#section-iii.-market-sector-structure-and-trends)

[1. The French Food Industry 10](#the-french-food-industry)

[Major French Food Processing Sectors and Growth Rates
11](#major-french-food-processing-sectors-and-growth-rates)

[2. Infrastructure Situation 11](#infrastructure-situation)

[3. Market Trends 11](#market-trends)

[4. Marketing U.S. Products & Distribution Systems
12](#marketing-u.s.-products-distribution-systems)

[SECTION IV. BEST HIGH-VALUE PRODUCT PROSPECTS
12](#section-iv.-best-high-value-product-prospects)

[APPENDIX A : FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL TRADE SHOWS IN France
18](#appendix-a-food-and-agricultural-trade-shows-in-france)

[In Calendar Year 2007 18](#in-calendar-year-2007)

[APPENDIX B :  U.S. BASED STATE REGIONAL TRADE GROUPS
22](#appendix-b-u.s.-based-state-regional-trade-groups)

[APPENDIX C : FRENCH GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
23](#appendix-c-french-government-agencies)

[STATISTICS 24](#statistics)

[TABLE A. KEY TRADE AND DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION FOR 2004 AND 2005
24](#table-a.-key-trade-and-demographic-information-for-2004-and-2005)

[TABLE B. CONSUMER FOOD & EDIBLE FISHERY PRODUCTS IMPORTS
25](#table-b.-consumer-food-edible-fishery-products-imports)

[TABLE C. TOP 15 SUPPLIERS OF CONSUMER FOODS & EDIBLE FISHERY PRODUCTS
26](#table-c.-top-15-suppliers-of-consumer-foods-edible-fishery-products)

**Note: Average exchange rates used in this report are:**

Calendar Year 2002: US Dollar 1 = 1.057 Euros

Calendar Year 2003: US Dollar 1 = 0.884 Euros

Calendar Year 2004: US Dollar 1 = 0.806 Euros

Calendar Year 2005: US Dollar 1 = 0.8038 Euros

(Source: Paris Stock Exchange/European Central Bank)

# SECTION I. MARKET OVERVIEW 

# 

## 1. Macroeconomic Situation

## 

As a member of the G-8, the European Union, the World Trade Organization
and the OECD, France is a leading economic player and international
force. With a \$2.1 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP), France is the
world's fifth largest industrialized economy. The French population of
62 million has a per capita income of \$34,306.

France is the fifth largest trading partner of the United States. U.S.
trade with France, including exports and imports of goods, services and
income, per U.S. Department of Commerce data, amounted to \$82 billion
in 2005. The United States is the primary recipient of French foreign
direct investment and is the third largest foreign investor in France.

Despite one of the best economic performances in the EU in 2004,
increasing its GDP 2.0 percent, the French economic recovery has flagged
under the weight of high oil prices and the fall of the Euro relative to
the dollar, showing only a modest economic growth of 1.2 percent in
2005. The inflation rate has also remained modest (1.5 percent). The
unemployment rate fell to 9.6 percent in 2005, from its highest level in
five years (10.1 percent in January and February 2005). Also in
September, the Prime Minister announced measures to stimulate faster
economic growth and reduce unemployment, while preserving the benefits
of the French welfare model.

The National Statistical Agency (INSEE) revised upward from 2.0 percent
to 2.3 percent its GDP growth forecast for 2006, after taking into
account the jump in the second quarter due to strong consumption.
INSEE\'s forecast is in line with the 2.0-2.5 percent government
forecast for 2006. The unemployment rate is forecast to decrease to 8.6
percent by the end of 2006, which would be the lowest rate since 2001.
The government revised its budget deficit estimate for 2006 from 2.7
percent of GDP to 2.6 percent after stronger-than-expected GDP growth
boosted tax receipts above forecasts. A possible hard landing of the
U.S. real estate market, and its impacts on European economies may
affect the French economy in early 2007.

## 2. French Agricultural Production and Consumption

## 

In 2005, agricultural production in France decreased 3.3 percent in
volume from 2004. This decrease is attributed to a reduction in
vegetable production (minus 6.4 percent) after a 2004 abundant crop. In
addition, grain production decreased 8.8 percent but remains close to
the average level of the five last years, due to the decrease in grain
yield and the dryness which affected corn production. Wine production
decreased 8.8 percent compared to the very good 2004 crop, vegetable
production is also down 7.1 percent, while rapeseed production increased
12.2 percent after an increase of 10 percent in 2004 in response to the
demand of the biofuels sector. Total animal production slightly increase
1.1 percent, with a reduction in poultry production (minus 2.9 percent),
due to the fear of the avian influenza.

In 2005, total French food and beverage purchases, including alcoholic
beverages, amounted to \$182.7 billion reflecting stable consumption.
Total food prices in 2005 increased 0.2 percent compared to 2004. In
2005, beef and fresh vegetable prices increased 4.2 percent and 2.1
percent, respectively; while prices of dairy products, sugar, chocolate
and confectionery as well as alcoholic beverages decreased slightly. The
outlook for food and beverage prices in 2006 is estimated at an overall
1.2 percent increase, coming mostly from meat, poultry, oils and mineral
water.

In 2005, meat consumption increased 0.8 percent mainly for veal, mutton
and poultry, despite the arrival of avian influenza at the end of the
year. Consumption of alcoholic beverages decreased for the third year in
a row, while consumption of non alcoholic beverages, except coffee, tea
and cocoa, increased due to both weather and their cost decrease.
Tobacco consumption decreased 0.6 percent in 2005, against a decrease of
18.2 percent in 2004. Tobacco prices slightly increased compared to high
increases in previous years.

Food consumption for the period January-July 2006 shows an overall
increase of 2.2 percent, with sales on the rise for frozen foods,
non-alcoholic beverages and fresh products (except dairy). Private label
foods are on the rise, representing 22.1 percent of the total food sales
of the hyper/supermarket and hard discounters.

## 3. Key Demographic Developments 

## 

As of January 1, 2006, preliminary estimates indicate a total population
of 62.9 million, including 1.9 million for overseas territories.
Immigration in France slightly decreased compared to 2004 (estimated to
97,500), and it remains the lowest in the European Union compared to the
total population. Preliminary 2006 figures show that France has a
slightly increasing birth rate (+1.19 percent) and a slightly declining
death rate. France should be one of the few EU member states to
experience population growth by 2050 estimated to 70 million, based on
the current demographic situation.

***France metropole: Population by Age Group (in millions)***

***(As of January 1, 2006)***

  -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- --------------
  Year           Total          Less than 20   20 to 64 years 65 years or
                                years                         more

  2000           60.5           15.6           35.3           9.6

  2001           60.9           15.6           35.6           9.7

  2002           61.3           15.6           35.9           9.8

  2003           61.7           15.7           36.1           9.9

  2004 (P)       62.1           15.7           36.4           10.0

  2005 (P)       62.5           15.7           36.7           10.1

  2006 (P)       62.9           15.8           36.9           10.2
  -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- --------------

P = Preliminary - Source: INSEE PREMIERE -

France: Demographic Evolution of Households (in millions)

  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  Year                                Number of Households

  1999                                24.1

  2000                                24.4

  2001                                24.5

  2002                                24.8

  2003                                25.1

  2004                                25.4

  2005 (P)                            25.7

  2006 (P)                            N/A
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

\(P\) = Preliminary - Source: INSEE - Enquête Budget Famille

According to current trends, the number of households should increase an
average of 228,000 per year until 2010.

## 4. Changing Food Trends

## 

Socio-economic and demographic changes have significantly altered food
trends in France. Trends show that French consumers desire food products
offering better taste, increased health benefits and more convenience:

-   The \"younger\" generation (26 percent) appreciates trying new
    products. This generation values products with an image along with
    good taste.

-   Food safety scares have raised consumer concerns about sanitation
    and safety issues. In turn, these concerns have led to greater
    demand for \"natural\" and organic food products\--fruit juices,
    fresh and processed dietetic foods, organic produce, fish and
    seafood products, ethnic foods and food supplements.

-   Working consumers or those living alone (30 percent) have less time
    to prepare meals. These consumers are pushing the demand for
    easy-to-prepare foods, single and double portion packs, and frozen
    or microwavable meals.

    ***Advantages and Challenges for U.S. Exporters in France***

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| **Advantages**                    | **Challenges**                    |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| -   The population's continuing   | -   Food scares and other food    |
|     rapid shift from rural to     |     safety issues cause concern   |
|     urban regions is boosting     |     among French consumers.       |
|     demand for international      |                                   |
|     food.                         | -   French consumers make         |
|                                   |     exacting demands when it      |
| -   French per capita income is   |     comes to quality and          |
|     near that of the United       |     innovation.                   |
|     States.                       |                                   |
|                                   | -   Price competition is fierce.  |
| -   The tourist industry          |                                   |
|     increases the demand for      | -   Certain food ingredients are  |
|                                   |     banned or restricted from the |
|    hotel/restaurants/institutions |     French market.                |
|     products.                     |                                   |
|                                   | -   Marketing costs to increase   |
| -   U.S. fast food chains, theme  |     consumer awareness are high.  |
|     restaurants, and the food     |                                   |
|     processing industry are       | -   Mandatory customs duties,     |
|     demanding American food       |     sanitary inspections and      |
|     ingredients.                  |     labeling requirements can be  |
|                                   |     onerous.                      |
| -   Domestic distribution systems |                                   |
|     are efficient.                |                                   |
|                                   |                                   |
| -   The euro eases entry and      |                                   |
|     dealings with EU member       |                                   |
|     states.                       |                                   |
|                                   |                                   |
| -   American food and food        |                                   |
|     products remain quite         |                                   |
|     popular.                      |                                   |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

# SECTION II. EXPORTER BUSINESS TIPS 

# 

## 1. Trade Barriers and Restrictions

## 

Food products entering the EU and France are subject to customs duties
which vary depending on the type of product. Most processed products are
subject to additional import charges based on the product contents of
sugar, milk fat, milk protein and starch.

Product safety and sanitary standards affecting imports into France are
increasingly established at the EU level, however, additional French
regulations affect imports as well. Efforts to harmonize EU import
regulations and to implement commitments under the World Trade
Organization (WTO) may abolish inconsistent and conflicting French and
EU regulations, quota conversions, variable levies, and restrictive
licensing requirements.

French regulations can act to limit market access for certain U.S.
agricultural products including, but not limited to, the following:

-   Poultry, meat and eggs

-   Enriched flour

-   Bovine genetics

-   Exotic meat (alligator)

-   Flightless bird meat (ratite)

-   Live crayfish

-   Beef and bison meat

-   Fruits and vegetables

-   Pet foods

-   Co-products derived from genetic modification

For more information on above product trade restrictions, food standards
and regulations, please refer to FAS/Paris Food and Agricultural Import
Regulations and Standards Report (FAIRS) available on Internet website:
[http://www.fas.usda.gov]{.underline}

France, like other EU member states, has a network of bilateral and
regional trade agreements that is expanding rapidly. The EU has customs
union agreements with Turkey and Andorra and 26 free trade agreements
under either GATT Article XXIV or GATS Article V. It has free trade
agreements (two-way free trade without common external tariffs) and
other sorts of preferential trade agreements with Norway, Iceland,
Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Bulgaria, Romania, Israel, the Palestinian
Authority, Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Algeria,
Mexico and South Africa. The EU provides ACP countries (African,
Caribbean and Pacific developing countries) with non-reciprocal
preferential access to its markets under the Cotonou Agreement, and
gives other developing countries preferential access under the
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

## 2. Consumer Tastes, Preferences and Food Safety

Like U.S. consumers, French consumers want innovative foods. French
consumers like ethnic and exotic foods with distinctive themes and
flavors. In 2005, 75 percent of French consumers ate an exotic or ethnic
meal at least once. This market is valued at \$220 million (excluding
fresh products), 8 percent above 2004. In the past three years, theme
restaurants have dramatically increased. In Paris, one of every two new
restaurants is based on a \"world food\" concept, and all major
supermarket chains offer ethnic foods under their private labels. In the
ethnic segment, consumers always seek new products. The trends in France
currently feature Thai, Northern and Southern African and Indian
cuisine. However, Tex-Mex, Cajun or California-style cuisine, sports
drinks and vitamin enriched snacks still have potential. Ready-to-eat
products such as frozen foods, seafood (particularly salmon), wild rice,
innovative dietetic/health products, organic products, frozen desserts,
kosher and halal foods are also gaining popularity.

While many consumers and distributors are receptive to new developments
in food products, they want more information on product contents and
manufacturing processes. France has labeling requirements for both
domestically-produced and imported food products containing
genetically-modified products or biotech-derived ingredients or
additives.

After the different food scares, the French Government encouraged the
development of quality marks such as "Label Rouge"(Red Label) for meats,
poultry and fruits and vegetables, which guarantee production under
established conditions and product origin labels which guarantee that,
for instance, certain wines, milk, butter, or cheeses are sourced from a
certain region. The government also continues a certification program
which guarantees that product preparation, manufacturing and packaging
processes follow certain specifications. These quality and origin marks
have been well received by French consumers. The organic food program
certifies that agricultural and food products were manufactured without
chemical fertilizers and according to special criteria. The Government
of France announced new measures to support the organic sector, and will
spend 4.5 million euros over the next three years to enhance consumers'
knowledge of the organic sector and 50 million euros over five years to
support the conversion from traditional to organic farming.

## 3. Marketing Strategies for the French Market

##  

\(a\) U.S. food product exporters should consider:

*Market access restrictions and food laws*

-   Check EU and French regulations to ensure your products can enter
    the French market and carefully verify the list of ingredients and
    additives.

-   Verify customs clearance requirements and any additional import
    charges based on percentage of sugar, milk fat, milk protein and
    starch in the product.

*Consumer characteristics*

-   Target dual income families, singles, senior citizens and health and
    environmentally-conscious consumers.

-   Influence consumer choices mostly through advertising campaigns.

*Seasonal characteristics*

-   Holiday promotions

-   In-store supermarket promotions

*Unique U.S. products characteristics*

-   High quality

-   Regional specialties (i.e., Florida grapefruit, California wine,
    Tex-Mex or

> Cajun style, New England seafood, etc.)

*Image appeal*

-   Packaging can help a product find a niche in this market,
    particularly if the U.S. firm has access to stores and supermarkets
    that specialize in U.S. or foreign foods.

*Trade Shows and In-Store Promotions:*

-   Trade shows, in-store product demonstrations can help to

> familiarize French consumers with U.S. food products.

-   Trade shows are an excellent way to introduce new products to the
    market.

\(b\) Successful Export Planning for Your Products:

-   Conduct basic market research and review export statistics of the
    last five years.

-   Contact the Office of Agricultural Affairs at the American Embassy
    in Paris to obtain up-to-date information on local government
    regulations, customs duties, politics, demographics, infrastructure,
    distributions channels and market size.

-   Adapt your product to local regulations: give the customer what they
    require, not what you think is needed, check your ingredients and
    package size requirements, verify consumers' preferences and make
    sure your product is price competitive.

-   Identify the best distribution channel for the product, i.e.,
    supermarkets, an importer/distributor, or a foreign agent. Be
    prepared to send samples.

-   Work with your agent, distributor/importer to determine the best
    promotional strategy. Be prepared to invest in the market promotion
    of your products (through trade shows, in-store promotions or
    advertising campaigns, to gain maximum exposure and make valuable
    market contacts). Also, be aware that promotional assistance is
    available for U.S. products through a variety of branded and generic
    promotion programs through the four State regional trade groups:
    FOOD EXPORT USA-NORTHEAST, SUSTA, WUSATA and FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION
    OF THE MIDWEST USA. (Addresses, telephone, fax and contact
    information for these four groups are listed in Section V, Appendix
    B, of this report).

## 4. General Import and Inspection Procedures

## 

###  General Import Requirements 

Import and export transactions exceeding 12,500 Euros (approximately
\$15,550) in value must be conducted through an approved banking
intermediary. Goods must be imported/exported no later than six months
after all financial and customs arrangements have been completed.

For products originating in countries other than EU member states or
participants in the World Trade Organization (WTO), and for a limited
number of products considered to be sensitive, a specific import/export
license may be required by product or by category of products.
Otherwise, the following shipping documents in French are required:

-   Commercial invoice;

-   Bill of landing or air waybill;

-   Certificate of origin

-   Sanitary/health certificate if need be (depending on the products)

    Note: U.S. exporters must make sure their products comply with
    French regulations and must verify customs clearance requirements
    with local authorities through their contacts before shipping the
    products to France. The Office of Agricultural Affairs of the
    American Embassy in Paris can provide assistance and information on
    these matters.

### Basic Labeling/Packaging Requirements: 

### 

Labels should be written in French and include the following
information:

-   *Product definition*

-   *Shelf life: Indicate "used by," and "best before" dates and other
    storage requirements*

-   *Precautionary information or usage instructions, if applicable*

-   *Statement of contents: ingredients, weights, volumes, etc., in
    metric units. All additives, preservatives and color agents must be
    noted on the label with their specific group name or their "E"
    number*

-   *Product's country of origin and name of importer or vendor within
    the EU*

-   *Manufacturer's lot or batch number*

    France implemented the EU Novel Food/Novel Feed and Traceability and
    Labeling Regulations on April 18, 2004. According to the T&L
    regulation, biotech products and biotech-derived products need to be
    identified \"from the seed to the fork\" at each stage of market
    release. A unique code will be attributed to each genetic event to
    facilitate communication among operators. The T&L regulation imposes
    the labeling of any food or feed product derived from biotech,
    whether biotech DNA is detectable in the final product or not. The
    threshold under which labeling is not compulsory is set at 0.9% for
    both human food and animal feed. A threshold on planting seeds has
    not yet been established.

    For more details, see the French Ministry of Agriculture website on
    biotech:
    <http://ogm.agriculture.gouv.fr/savoir_plus/fiches/fiche6.htm>, as
    well as the French decree implementing EU Regulation which can be
    found at:
    http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/WAspad/UnTexteDeJorf?numjo=ECOC0400078D

### Customs Process

-   A person or company can facilitate customs clearance for imports so
    long as they can present the French Customs Authorities at the port
    of entry or at the airport in France with the imported goods and the
    necessary accompanying documents. To ease the clearance process, the
    U.S. exporter should have the customs clearance done by either a
    forwarding agent or his importer/distributor or agent in the country
    of destination. More information may be obtained from the General
    French Customs Authorities listed in Section V, Appendix C, of this
    report.

-   Generally, a visual inspection consists of verifying that products
    are accompanied by the correct shipping documents.

-   A detailed inspection may include sampling or a chemical analysis
    test.

-   The speed of the customs clearance procedure can depend on the
    thoroughness of U.S. exporters' documentation.

-   When released, the foodstuffs are subject to ad valorem customs
    duties levied under the Common External Tariff. Duties differ
    according to product. Also, in addition to customs duties,
    foodstuffs imported into France are subject to a Value-Added Tax
    (VAT). Currently the VAT is generally charged at one of the two
    following rates:

\- Standard rate of 19.6 percent applies to alcoholic beverages, some
chocolates and

candies

> \- Reduced rate of 5.5 percent applies mostly to agricultural and food
> products.

# SECTION III. MARKET SECTOR STRUCTURE AND TRENDS 

# 

## 1. The French Food Industry 

## 

-   The food industry is the largest French industrial sector,
    accounting for 32 percent of the total economy's added value. France
    is the world leader in processed food exports, worth 28.7 billion
    Euros (\$35.7 billion) in 2005, approximately 10 percent of the
    global trade in processed foods. The French food processing industry
    is number one in Europe ahead of Germany and number two in the world
    following the United States.

-   France currently has 30 major food processors, and over 10,800 food
    industry companies.

-   According to the French Food Industry Association (ANIA), in 2005,
    food processing sector sales were 139.7 billion Euros (\$173.8
    billion), an increase of 1.2 percent from the 2004 level.

-   In 2005, the French food industry continued to restructure in the
    face of greater competition from large multinational groups and the
    globalizing effects of the Euro.

-   Total food exports in 2005: 28.7 billion Euros (\$35.7billion), a
    1.8 percent increase in value over 2004.

-   Total food imports in 2005: 21.8 billion Euros (\$27.1 billion), 2,8
    percent increase in value over 2004.

##  Major French Food Processing Sectors and Growth Rates 

  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
  Food Processing Sectors 2005 Value (In billion  Percent Price Increase
                          \$) \--Incl. Taxes\--   2005/2004

  Grains & Animal Feed    16.5                    -4.8

  Oilseeds & Seeds        2.5                     +6.0

  Canned Fruits &         11.2                    +2.8
  Vegetables & Fruit                              
  Juices                                          

  Meat industry           35.9                    +0.3

  Seafood Industry        3.8                     +2.2

  Milk Industry           26.4                    -0.8

  Beverages Industry      18.7                    -2.2

  Fats and Oils           3.0                     +4.8

  Bread and pastry        15.7                    +0.9

  Sugar                   4.0                     +1.1

  Miscellaneous (1)       15.0                    +1.9
  ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------

\(1\) Includes: Chocolate, beverage preparations, baby foods, canned
deserts, and soups.

Source: INSEE - National Account

## 2. Infrastructure Situation

## 

France's transportation infrastructure is among the most sophisticated
in the world, benefiting from advanced technology and a high level of
investment by the government. The three main entry points for
air-freight are Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports in Paris and
Saint-Exupéry airport in Lyon. France has twelve major seaports, many of
which are equipped for container ships. There is also an extensive
highway and river-transport system, and a state-owned rail network that
is among the most comprehensive and technologically advanced in the
world.

Communications infrastructure is similarly advanced. Telephone lines
blanket the country and there is easy access to the Internet via French
and foreign service providers. France is catching up rapidly to the U.S.
and some other countries in the use of personal computers and the
Internet. High-speed Internet access is expanding rapidly. The
government continues promoting better use of information technologies.

## 3. Market Trends 

The French market for food products is mature, sophisticated and well
served by suppliers from around the world. Additionally, an increasing
interest in American culture, younger consumers and changing lifestyles
contribute to France's import demand for American food products.
Generally, high quality food products with a regional American image can
find a niche in the French market, particularly if they gain
distribution through stores and supermarkets that specialize in U.S. or
foreign foods. Niche market opportunities also exist for regional
American foodstuffs (Tex-Mex, Cajun and California cuisine), candies and
chocolates, wild rice, and organic and health food products, as well as
kosher and halal foods.

The French food service industry is moving towards fresh consumer-ready
products at the expense of frozen foods.

## 4. Marketing U.S. Products & Distribution Systems 

## 

The United States and France produce many of the same goods and services
and export them to each other. Therefore, marketing products and
services in France can bear some resemblance to marketing in the United
States. French business representatives are sophisticated and
knowledgeable about their respective markets. At the same time, American
firms must take into consideration certain business practices, cultural
factors, and legal requirements in order to do business effectively in
France. For detailed information on the distribution systems and the
best market entry approach for new-to-market exporters for the retail
food sector, see Post Retail Food Sector Report, on AgParis website at:
www.amb-usa.fr\\fas\\fas.htm, or on the FAS website at:
www.fas.usda.gov.

The Hotel/Restaurant Institutional (HRI) sector in France uses the
services of wholesalers or processed food buyers, and the well developed
distribution channels of the wholesalers/importers are often the key to
getting a new food product into that sector. A report on the HRI sector
in France is available at the above website.

# SECTION IV. BEST HIGH-VALUE PRODUCT PROSPECTS 

# 

There are significant market opportunities for consumer food/edible
fishery products in a number of areas: fruit juices and soft drinks
(including flavored spring waters), dried fruits and nuts, fresh fruits
and vegetables (particularly tropical and exotic), frozen foods (both
ready-to-eat meals and specialty products), snack foods, tree nuts,
\"ethnic\" products, seafood (particularly salmon & surimi), innovative
dietetic and health products, organic products, soups, breakfast cereals
and pet foods. In addition, niche markets exist in France for candies,
chocolate bars, wild rice, kosher and halal foods. Market opportunities
for U.S. exporters also exist for oilseeds, protein meals and other
feeds, as well as for wood products and grains.

Listed below are six consumer-oriented food products considered by the
Office of Agricultural Affairs as representing the \"best prospects\"
for U.S. business.

**Top 6 Market Opportunities for Consumer-Oriented Food Products**

**(USD million)**

1\. Name of Best Prospect: **FISH AND SEAFOOD, FRESH AND FROZEN**

HS Code: 03 (in million dollars)

> 2003 2004 2005
>
> \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-- January / December \-\-\-\--

A. Total Market Size 4,380 4,643 4,933

B. Local Production 1,907 1,985 1,950

C. Total Exports 1,352 1,501 1,599

D. Total Imports 3,825 4,159 4,582

E. Total Imports from U.S 136 165 191

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00=Euros 0.884 Euros 0.806 Euros 0.8038

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** France is a major consumer of seafood products and a net
importer of many seafood products because domestic production is
significantly lower than demand. In 2004, the best export opportunities
for U.S. seafood were Alaska Pollack fillets, surimi base, salmon,
lobster, and scallops. In 2005, salmon remained the French consumers'
preferred fish. U.S. salmon exports to France in 2005 were favored by
the U.S. dollar/euro exchange rate and a French media campaign against
farm-raised European salmon. The U.S. market share of groundfish fillet
products increased from 7 percent to 9 percent in 2005 and the potential
for continued growth remains positive. The United States was France's
largest supplier of live lobster in 2005, ahead of Canadian lobster. The
United States has become a major supplier of scallops to France and this
trend continued in 2006. France is the largest market for surimi in
Europe and the United States is France's leading supplier of surimi
base. (For further information, please see annual seafood report FR6054
dated October 6, 2006) which can be found on the following website:
[www.fas.usda.gov](http://www.fas.usda.gov/) (attaché reports).

2\. Name of Best Prospect: **PROCESSED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES,
INCLUDING**

**FRUIT JUICES**

HS Code: 20 (in million dollars)

> 2003 2004 2005
>
> \-\-\-\-\-\-- January / December \-\-\-\--

A. Total Market Size 8,164 9,897 9,603

B. Local Production 7,188 8,078 8,087

C. Total Exports 1,235 1,467 1,135

D. Total Imports 2,211 3,286 2,651

E. Total Imports from U.S. 60 26 63

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00=Euros: 0.884 Euros: 0.806 Euros : 0.8038

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** Fruit juices and soft drinks in France are currently the
most dynamic growth sectors among non-alcoholic beverages, with a per
capita consumption of fruit juices estimated at 24 liters a year. The
French fruit juice market is very sophisticated due to the experience of
distributors, variety of packaging, diversity of flavors and quality
types, product innovation, advertising investment and promotions, as
well as price ranges. As per French Customs statistics, in 2005, French
imports of fruit juices totaled about 590 million Euros (\$734 million).
The primary imports from the United States consist of fresh and frozen
orange and grapefruit juices and amounted to \$22 million in 2005.
Competition in juices is very strong, principally from Brazil, Israel
and Spain, which benefit from preferential tariffs.

3\. Name of Best Prospect: **BEVERAGES, INCLUDING MINERAL WATER, BEER,
WINE AND SPIRITS**

HS Codes: 22.01 to 22.06 and 22.07+22.08 (in million dollars)

> 2003 2004 2005
>
> \-\-\-\-- January / December \-\-\-\-\--

A. Total Market Size 13,097 14,803 15,003

B. Local Production 21,589 23,676 24,038

C. Total Exports 10,627 11,411 11,645

D. Total Imports 2,135 2,538 2,610

E. Total Imports from U.S. 54 61 65

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00=Euros: 0.884 Euros : 0.806 Euros: 0.8038

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** In 2005, French imports of U.S. wine totaled 18 million
Euros (\$22 million), representing 3.8 percent of total French wine
imports by value. U.S. wines in France face strong competition from
Italy, Spain and Greece as well as from new world countries such as
Australia, South Africa and Chile. However, market opportunities exist
for U.S. wines in France thanks in part to the \"exoticism\" and quality
of the products and the promotional efforts made by American themed
restaurants in France.

The French are also significant consumers of spirits. In 2005, U.S.
spirits exports to France were valued at 32 million Euros (\$40 million)
representing 4.9 percent of total French spirits imports estimated at
659 million Euros (\$820 million).

Opportunities exist for ethnic, new and innovative U.S. products,
particularly those that can be linked with Tex-Mex foods. Also, sales of
innovative products such as beer with whiskey malt are on the rise, as
are sales of non-alcoholic beers and \"panaches\" (mixture of beer and
lemonade).

Currently, the French beer industry consists of 18 breweries
representing over 200 brands, and two American brewers present in the
French market: Anheuser-Bush and Miller. The French beer market is
valued at 1.83 billion Euros (\$2.3 billion), representing about 11
percent of total alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage sales and two
percent of total food and beverage sales in France. Annual per capita
consumption of beer in France is estimated at 36 liters.

4\. Name of Best Prospect: **FRESH AND DRIED FRUITS, INCLUDING NUTS**

HS 08 (in million dollars)

> 2003 2004 2005
>
> \-\-\-\-\-\-\-- January / December \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\--

A. Total Market Size 3,518 3,949 4,104

B. Local Production 2,145 2,170 2,185

C. Total Exports 1,714 1,749 1,801

D. Total Imports 3,087 3,528 3,720

E. Total Imports from U.S. 132 160 180

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00=Euros: 0.884 Euros :0.806 Euros : 0.8038

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** The best opportunities for U.S. suppliers are in
off-season and extended-season sales, and years of short French fruit
crops. France is one of the most important markets for U.S. grapefruit
(mostly from Florida), valued at 18 million Euros (\$22 million) in
2005, although French imports of grapefruits from the United States
decreased 26 percent in value in 2005, versus 2004, due to the
hurricanes in Florida, U.S. market share represents 25 percent of total
French imports in value and 20 percent in volume.

France also imports apples and pears (in short crop years). There is
also a niche market for berries, cherries and tangerines. In 2005, U.S.
fresh fruit exports to France were valued at 20 million Euros (\$25
million).

The snack and nut product niche market is important for U.S. exporters,
who profit from promoting their products as healthy and high-quality
choices. Dried fruits and nuts, generally salted, are mainly consumed as
snacks with aperitifs. Among the most popular snacks are cashews,
almonds, pecans, hazelnuts and pistachios, all of which sell best when
merchandised in bulk packages. French consumption of these products has
doubled over the past seven years as the French now snack between meals.
Although France is a significant grower of walnuts, French import demand
is primarily determined by the size of the domestic production. The
United States remains France's leading supplier of in-shell walnuts
whereas Moldova and China provided the bulk of shelled imports.

(For detailed market information, please see Post brief report on dried
fruits FR6055 and nuts FR6065, which can be found on the following
website: [www.fas.usda.gov](http://www.fas.usda.gov/) (attaché reports).

5\. Name of Best Prospect: **FRESH AND DRIED VEGETABLES**

Hs Code: 07 (in million dollars)

> 2003 2004 2005
>
> \-\-\-\-\-\-- January / December \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\--

A. Total Market Size 4,988 5,362 5,486

B. Local Production 4,550 4,861 4,950

C. Total Exports 1,630 1,751 1,811

D. Total Imports 2,068 2,252 2,347

E. Total Imports from U.S. 24 17 19

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00=Euros: 0,884 Euros :0.806 Euros : 0.8038

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** Very few opportunities exist in this market for U.S. fresh
vegetables, except for green asparagus, and maybe some superior quality
and produced off-season fresh vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini,
sweet peppers and iceberg lettuce. However, trends and increased
consumption indicate growing demand for fresh prepared vegetables
(washed and cut) and many supermarkets have a special section for these
types of products. There is also a growing demand for organic
vegetables.

U.S. dried vegetables exports to France increased 3.3 percent in value
in 2005, compared to 2004 to reach \$17 million. In 2005, rice imports
from the United States decreased 16 percent in value to \$13 million;
this decrease is due to strong competition from Spain and Italy and high
US prices. Significant opportunities exist for U.S. suppliers for dried
beans, peas and lentils.

6\. Name of Best Prospect: **MEAT AND OFFALS**

HS Code: 02 (in million dollars)

> 2003 2004 2005
>
> \-\-\-\-\-\-- January / December \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\--

A. Total Market Size 7,640 7,890 8,315

B. Local Production 7,820 7,750 7,940

C. Total Exports 3,156 3,489 3,528

D. Total Imports 2,976 3,629 3,903

E. Total Imports from U.S. 20 30 45

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00=Euros:0.884 Euros : 0.806 Euros : 0.8038

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments**: Opportunities in this market are limited given the import
quota on meat and stringent EU veterinary regulations. The most
prominent meat import from the United States is horsemeat which was
valued at \$41 million in 2005, while pork meat imports amounted to \$3
million and beef imports \$491,000. Bison meat is getting more and more
popular in France; mosly of Canadian origin, but there might be
opportunities for U.S. products. Currently, the annual EU meat import
quotas are as follows:

-Beef meat (hormone-free): 11,700 tons yearly for Canada and the United
States;

-Pork meat: Approximately 70,000 tons for all third countries.

For more information and the enlargment compensation agreement between
the U.S. and the EU, please visit the following website: www.useu.be

**SECTION V. KEY CONTACTS AND FURTHER INFORMATION**

# 

For further information contact:

Office of Agricultural Affairs

American Embassy

2, avenue Gabriel - 75382 Paris Cedex 08

Tel: (33-1) 43 12 2264

Fax: (33-1) 43 12 2662

Email: [agparis@usda.gov]{.underline}

homepage: [http://www.amb-usa.fr/fas/fas.htm]{.underline}

For more information on exporting U.S. food products to France, visit
our homepage. The OAA homepage includes information on the HRI and
Retail food sector, Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and
Standards, product briefs on the market potential for U.S. products,
upcoming promotional trade shows and fairs in France. Importer lists are
available from our office to exporters of U.S. food products.

For more information on exporting U.S. agricultural products to other
countries, please visit the Foreign Agricultural Service home page:
[http://www.fas.usda.gov]{.underline}

# APPENDIX A : FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL TRADE SHOWS IN France 

# In Calendar Year 2007

For Trade Shows in Calendar Year 2008, please visit FAS/Paris Homepage
at:

*www.amb-usa.fr/fas/fas.htm*

SIRHA

International Hotel Catering

and Food Trade Exhibition

(USDA-endorsed)

January 20-24, 2007

Eurexpo Lyon

Organizer: Sepelcom

Tel: (33 4) 26 61 61 01

Fax: (33 4) 72 22 32 18

Email: mjk@sepelcom.com

Internet: www.sirha.com

(Biennal Show)

SALON NATIONAL DE LA BOULANGERIE, PATISSERIE, CHOCOLATERIE/INTERSUC

International Chocolate, Sugar & Bakery Trade Show

February 11-14, 2007

Paris, Porte de Versailles

Organizer: Exposium

Tel: (33 1) 49 68 52 26

Fax: (33 1) 49 68 56 30

Email: jalquier@erxposium.fr

internet: www.salonboulangerie.com

(Annual Show)

TEXWORLD International Textile Manufacturers

February 19-22, 2007

Paris - Le Bourget

Organizer: Messe Frankfurt France SAS

Tel: (33 1) 55 26 89 89

Fax: (33 1) 40 35 09 00

Email: texworld@france.messefrankfurt.com

Internet: www.texworld.messefrankfurt.com

(Twice a year, every six months)

LE CUIR A PARIS International Leather Products February 20-23, 2007 Show

Parc des Expositions - Paris Nord Villepinte

Organizer: SIC SA

Tel: (33 1) 43 59 05 69

Fax: (33 1) 43 59 30 02

Email: contactsic@sicgroup.com

Internet: www.lecuiraparis.com

(Twice a year, every six months)

PREMIERE VISION International Textile and Clothing

February 20-23, 2007 Show

Parc des Expositions Paris-Nord Villepinte

Organizer: Premiere Vision Salon

Tel: (33 4) 72 60 65 00

Fax: (33 4) 72 60 65 49

Email: info@premierevision.fr

Internet: www.premierevision.fr

(Twice a year, every six months)

SALON DU VEGETAL Horticultural Trade Show

February 21-23, 2007

Angers

Organizer: BHR - Bureau Horticole

Regional des Pays de Loire

Tel: (33 2) 41 79 14 17

Fax: (33 2) 41 45 29 05

Email: salon@bhr-vegetal.com

Internet: www.salon-du-vegetal.com

(Annual Show)

SALON INTERNATIONAL DE l\'AGRICULTURE International Agricultural Show

Paris Porte de Versailles

March 3-11, 2007

Organizer: Comite des Expositions de Paris

Tel: (33-1) 49 09 60 00

Fax: (33-1) 49 09 61 58

E-mail: info[\@comexpo-paris.com]{.underline}

Internet: [http://www.salon-agriculture.com]{.underline}

(Annual Show)

IN-FOOD 2007 100% Intermediary Food

March 13-14, 2007 Ingredients

CNIT - Paris la Defense

Organizer: Exposium

Tel: (33 1) 49 68 51 44

Fax: (33 1) 49 68 56 31

Email: cbenhammou@exposium.fr

shekimyan@exposium.fr

Internet: www.in-food.fr

(Annual Show)

SALON DES MARQUES DE DISTRIBUTEURS International Private Label

ALIMENTAIRES - MDD RENCONTRES Show for foods

March 27-29, 2007

Paris - Parc des Expositions/ Porte de Versailles

Organizer: JANGIL

Tel: (33-5) 53 36 78 78

Fax: (33-5) 53 36 78 79

Email: mddexpo@jangil.net

Internet: www.mdd-expo.com

(Annual Show)

FOIRE INTERNATIONALE DE PARIS International Food, Beverages &

Paris - Porte de Versailles Tourism Fair

April 28-May 8, 2007

Organizer: Comite des Expositions de Paris

Tel: (33-1) 49 09 60 00

Fax: (33-1) 49 09 60 03

E-Mail: [info@comexpo-paris.com]{.underline}

Internet: http//: [www.foiredeparis.fr]{.underline}

(Annual Fair)

WORLD FOOD MARKET International Ethnic & Specialty

Paris - Porte de Versailles Foods (including Kosher and Halal Sections)

May 16-17, 2007

Organizer: Ithaca Francel

Tel: (33-1) 45 23 81 11

Fax: (33-1) 45 23 81 20

[E-mail: info@ethnicfoodshow.com]{.underline}

Internet: http://[www.ethnicfoodshow.com]{.underline}

(Annual Show)

VINEXPO International Wine and Spirits

Bordeaux-Lac, Exhibition Center Exhibition

June 17-21, 2007

Organizer: VINEXPO

Tel: (33 5) 56 56 00 22

Fax: (33 5) 56 56 00 00

Email: info@vinexpo.com

Internet: www.vinexpo.com

(Biennal Show)

SALON INTERNATIONAL DE L\'ELEVAGE International Trade Fair for

(SPACE 2007) Livestock

Rennes - Carrefour Europeen

September 11-14, 2007

Organizer: SPACE

Tel: (33-2) 23 48 28 80

Fax: (33-2) 23 48 28 81

Email: <info@space.fr>

Internet: [www.space.fr]{.underline}

(Annual Show)

PREMIERE VISION International Textile & Clothing

September 18-21, 2007 Show

Parc des Expositions Paris-Nord Villepinte

Organizer: Premiere Vision le Salon

Tel: (33-4) 72 60 65 00

Fax: (33-4) 72 60 65 49

Email: <info@premierevision.fr>

Internet: http://[www.premierevision.fr]{.underline}

(Held twice a year -- every six months)

LE CUIR A PARIS International Leather Products Show

Paris - Porte de Versailles

September 18-21, 2007

Organizer: Sic SA

Tel: (33-1) 43 59 05 69

Fax: (33-1) 43 59 30 02

Email: <contactsic@sicgroup.com>

Internet: www.lecuiraparis.com

(Held twice a year - every six months)

TEXWORLD International Textile Manufacturers

September 17-20, 2007

Paris - Le Bourget

Organizer: Messe Frankfrut France S.A.S.

Tel: (33-1) 55 26 89 89

Fax: (33-1) 40 35 09 00

Email: [texworld@france.messefrankfurt.com]{.underline}

Internet: http://[www.texworld.messefrankfurt.com]{.underline}

(Held twice a year -- every six months)

NATEXPO International Health/Dietetic and

Paris - Porte de Versailles Organic Show

October 20-22, 2007

Organizer: Comexpo Paris

Tel: (33 1) 49 09 64 59

Fax: (33 1) 49 09 64 10

Email: drichard@comexpo-paris.com

Internet: www.natexpo.com

(Biennal Show)

BATIMAT International Building Show

Parc Expo - Porte de Versailles

November 5-10, 2007

Organizer: Reed Exhibition

Internet: www.batimat.com

(Biennal Show)

#  APPENDIX B :  U.S. BASED STATE REGIONAL TRADE GROUPS

FOOD EXPORT USA - NORTHEAST

150 S. Independence Mall West

Philadelphia, PA 19106-3410

Tel: (215) 829 9111/Fax: (215) 829 9777

E-Mail: <info@foodexportusa.org>

Web: [http://www.foodexportusa.org](http://www.foodexportusa.org/)

Contact: Tim Hamilton, Executive Director or Daleen D. Richmond, Deputy
Director

FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST USA

309 W Washington Street, Suite 600

Chicago, Illinois 60606

Tel: (312) 334 9200/Fax: (312) 334 9230

E-Mail: <info@foodexport.org>

Web: [http://www.foodexport.org](http://www.foodexport.org/)

Contact: Tim Hamilton, Executive Director/Daleen D. Richmond, Deputy
Director

SOUTHERN U.S. TRADE ASSOCIATION (SUSTA)

World Trade Center

2 Canal Street, Suite 2515

New Orleans, LA 70130-1408

Tel: (504) 568-5986/Fax: (504) 568-6010

E-Mail: <Susta@Susta.Org>

Web: [http://www.susta.org](http://www.susta.org/)

Contact: Jerry Hingle, Executive Director

WESTERN U.S. AGRICULTURAL TRADE ASSOCIATION (WUSATA)

4601 NE 77th Avenue, Suite 200

Vancouver, WA 98662

Tel: (360) 693 3373/Fax: (360) 693 3464

E-Mail: [export@wusata.org]{.underline}

Contact: Andy Anderson, Executive Director

# APPENDIX C : FRENCH GOVERNMENT AGENCIES 

*Agency responsible for French label/product ingredient regulations:*

Direction Générale de la Concurrence, de la Consommation

et de la Répression des Fraudes (DGCCRF)

Ministère de l'Economie, des Finances et de l'Industrie

59, boulevard Vincent Auriol

75703 Paris Cedex 13

Tel: (33-1) 44 87 1717/Fax: (33-1) 44 97 3031

Internet: [http://www.finance.gouv.fr](http://www.finance.gouv.fr/)

*Agency responsible for promotion and control of food quality:*

Direction Générale de l'Alimentation (DGAL)

Ministére de l'Agriculture et de la Pêche

251, rue de Vaugirard - 75015 Paris

Tel: (33-1) 49 55 4955

Fax: (33-1) 49 55 4850

Internet:
[http://www.agriculture.gouv.fr](http://www.agriculture.gouv.fr/)

*For information on duties, taxes, and documentation:*

Centre de Renseignements Douaniers

84, rue d'Hauteville

75010 Paris

Tel: (33-1) 825 30 82 63/Fax: (33-1) 53 24 6830

Email: <crd-ile-de-france@douane.finances.gouv.fr>

Internet:
[http://www.douane-minefi.gouv.fr](http://www.douane-minefi.gouv.fr/)

# STATISTICS

## TABLE A. KEY TRADE AND DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION FOR 2004 AND 2005

## 

  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  Ag. Imports from All Countries (1)  \$39.2 billion (\*)

  U.S. Market Share (1)               2.3 percent (\*)

  Consumer Food Imports from All      \$23.1 billion (\*)
  Countries (1)                       

  U.S. Market Share (1)               1.8 percent (\*)

  Edible Fishery Imports from All     \$3.9 billion (\*)
  Countries (1)                       

  U.S. Market Share (1)               4.1 percent (\*)

  Total Population/Annual Growth Rate 62.2 million - Growth rate annual:
  (2)                                 0.5%

  Urban Population /Annual Growth     47 million - Annual Growth rate:
  Rate                                N/A

  Number of Metropolitan Areas (3)    4

  Size of the Middle Class (4)        85 percent of total population

  Per Capita Gross Domestic Product   \$34,306

  Unemployment Rate                   9.6 percent

  Percent of Female Population        45.8 percent
  Employed (5)                        

  Exchange Rate: US\$1 = EURO 0.8038  
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

Footnotes:

(\*) Figures available for 2004 only from the (1) United Nations
Statistical Data

\(2\) Preliminary figures

\(3\) Population in excess of 1,000,000

\(4\) This notion doesn\'t exist as such in France. However, if you
define the middle class by

excluding the poorest and the wealthiest, the middle class represents
85% of the population

\(5\) Percent against total number of women (15 years old or above)

## TABLE B. CONSUMER FOOD & EDIBLE FISHERY PRODUCTS IMPORTS 

  ----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ --------- --------- --------- -- ------- ------- -------
  **France Imports**            **Imports                                                                               
                                from the                                                                                
                                World                                                                                   
                                Imports from                                                                            
                                U.S. U.S.                                                                               
                                Market                                                                                  
                                Share**                                                                                 

  (In Millions of Dollars)      2002         2003         2004         2002      2003      2004         2002    2003    2004

                                                                                                                        

  **CONSUMER-ORIENTED           16,814       20,215       23,129       312       372       429          2       2       2
  AGRICULTURAL TOTAL**                                                                                                  

  Snack Foods (Excl. Nuts)      1,489        1,866        2,135        3         8         3            0       0       0

  Breakfast Cereals & Pancake   199          232          252          1         1         1            0       0       0
  Mix                                                                                                                   

  Red Meats,                    1,927        2,258        2,745        15        19        29           1       1       1
  Fresh/Chilled/Frozen                                                                                                  

  Red Meats, Prepared/Preserved 474          592          694          1         1         1            0       0       0

  Poultry Meat                  274          355          447          1         0         0            0       0       0

  Dairy Products (Excl. Cheese) 1,284        1,519        1,743        1         1         4            0       0       0

  Cheese                        678          823          898          0         0         0            0       0       0

  Eggs & Products               102          142          130          5         6         5            5       4       4

  Fresh Fruit                   1,934        2,495        2,861        35        41        32           2       2       1

  Fresh Vegetables              1,240        1,540        1,679        2         3         1            0       0       0

  Processed Fruit & Vegetables  1,779        2,095        2,521        29        33        48           2       2       2

  Fruit & Vegetable Juices      548          711          710          33        37        25           6       5       4

  Tree Nuts                     257          304          334          78        88        124          31      29      37

  Wine & Beer                   731          888          1,033        16        16        20           2       2       2

  Nursery Products & Cut        909          1,119        1,254        1         1         1            0       0       0
  Flowers                                                                                                               

  Pet Foods (Dog & Cat Food)    159          230          281          5         2         1            3       1       0

  Other Consumer-Oriented       2,830        3,049        3,412        88        116       135          3       4       4
  Products                                                                                                              

                                                                                                                        

  **FISH & SEAFOOD PRODUCTS**   3,154        3,632        3,997        141       136       164          4       4       4

  Salmon                        327          377          399          11        11        14           3       3       4

  Surimi                        54           58           69           23        22        24           43      38      35

  Crustaceans                   856          934          1,010        26        26        31           3       3       3

  Groundfish & Flatfish         736          912          1,064        52        45        56           7       5       5

  Molluscs                      283          348          377          15        20        28           5       6       7

  Other Fishery Products        898          1,004        1,078        14        12        11           2       1       1

                                                                                                                        

  **AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS       **23,857**   **28,469**   **31,825**   **621**   **659**   **704**      **3**   **2**   **2**
  TOTAL**                                                                                                               

  **AGRICULTURAL, FISH &        **29,393**   **35,042**   **39,264**   **821**   **848**   **921**      **3**   **2**   **2**
  FORESTRY TOTAL**                                                                                                      

                                                                                                                        
  ----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ --------- --------- --------- -- ------- ------- -------

Source: FAS\' Global Agricultural Trade System using data from the
United Nations Statistical Office

## TABLE C. TOP 15 SUPPLIERS OF CONSUMER FOODS & EDIBLE FISHERY PRODUCTS 

## 

  --------------------- ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- -- ------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
  **CONSUMER-ORIENTED                                                         **FISH &                                      
  AG TOTAL**                                                                  SEAFOOD                                       
                                                                              PRODUCTS**                                    

  **FRANCE IMPORTS**                                                          **(In Million                                 
                                                                              of Dollars)**                                 

  **(In Million of      **2002**         **2003**         **2004**                          **2002**        **2003**        **2004**
  Dollars)**                                                                                                                

                                                                                                                            

  **United States**     **311,641**      **372,186**      **429,355**         **United      **140,909**     **135,531**     **163,560**
                                                                              States**                                      

  Spain                 2,740,519        3,517,466        4,006,234           United        347,160         409,177         425,624
                                                                              Kingdom                                       

  Belgium               2,380,865        2,888,263        3,372,322           Norway        239,356         295,497         320,290

  Netherlands           2,444,441        2,754,777        3,191,852           Spain         215,796         234,776         267,978

  Germany               2,284,032        2,735,628        3,132,136           Netherlands   185,281         192,732         225,088

  Italy                 1,662,425        1,950,679        2,200,516           Denmark       156,801         173,083         210,069

  United Kingdom        722,049          815,082          904,637             Madagascar    130,905         177,679         184,014

  Morocco               426,457          472,656          537,353             Germany       108,143         114,165         129,410

  Ireland               346,884          426,247          491,703             Ireland       108,631         111,532         116,535

  Switzerland           265,312          336,664          388,652             Iceland       91,220          111,517         114,027

  Denmark               316,154          363,642          388,181             Brazil        51,468          88,108          106,268

  New Zealand           233,716          264,237          298,954             Belgium       98,699          99,236          104,675

  Israel                162,771          194,131          261,496             Cote          114,369         93,335          96,179
                                                                              d\'Ivoire                                     

  Portugal              188,896          235,230          256,567             Morocco       59,748          77,156          84,306

  Cote d\'Ivoire        188,360          235,162          236,275             Chile         61,115          62,664          82,004

  Other                 2,139,974        2,653,139        3,032,385           Other         1,044,558       1,256,248       1,366,819

  **World**             **16,814,278**   **20,215,316**   **23,128,870**      **World**     **3,154,103**   **3,632,432**   **3,996,917**
  --------------------- ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- -- ------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------

Source: United Nations Statistics Division