Required Report - public distribution

**Date:** 11/23/2004

**GAIN Report Number:** FR4065

FR4065

**France**

**Exporter Guide**

**Annual**

**2004**

**Approved by:**

![](media/image1.wmf)Besa L. Kotati

U.S. Embassy

**Prepared by:**

Roselyne Gauthier

**Report Highlights:**

France offers niche market opportunities for U.S. exporters. Significant
market opportunities exist 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 including
nuts and meat and offals.

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. Size and Growth Rate for Consumer-Ready Food Products
4](#size-and-growth-rate-for-consumer-ready-food-products)

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

[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)

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

[Key Figures for the French Food Industry and Growth Rates
10](#key-figures-for-the-french-food-industry-and-growth-rates)

[Production of Major French Food Processing Sectors (1) and Growth Rates
11](#production-of-major-french-food-processing-sectors-1-and-growth-rates)

[Infrastructure Situation 11](#infrastructure-situation)

[Market Trends 11](#market-trends)

[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)

[SECTION V. KEY CONTACTS AND FURTHER INFORMATION
16](#section-v.-key-contacts-and-further-information)

[APPENDIX A 17](#appendix-a)

[FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL TRADE SHOWS IN FRANCE
17](#food-and-agricultural-trade-shows-in-france)

[In Calendar Year 2005 17](#in-calendar-year-2005)

[APPENDIX B 21](#appendix-b)

[U.S. BASED STATE REGIONAL TRADE GROUPS
21](#u.s.-based-state-regional-trade-groups)

[APPENDIX C 22](#appendix-c)

[FRENCH GOVERNMENT AGENCIES 22](#french-government-agencies)

[STATISTICS 23](#statistics)

[TABLE A. KEY TRADE AND DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION FOR 2003
23](#table-a.-key-trade-and-demographic-information-for-2003)

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

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

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

Calendar Year 2001: US Dollar 1 = FF 7.32 = 1.116 Euros

Calendar Year 2002: US Dollar 1 = 1.057 Euros

Calendar Year 2003: US Dollar 1 = 0.884 Euros

(Source: Paris Stock Exchange/European Central Bank)

# SECTION I. MARKET OVERVIEW 

## 1. Macroeconomic Situation 

## 

With a GDP of \$1.8 trillion, France is the world's fifth largest
industrialized economy. With an annual gross domestic product (GDP)
about one-fifth that of the United States, France was the United States'
ninth largest trading partner in 2003, with U.S. exports of goods,
services and income receipts, as per the U.S. Department of Commerce
data, amounting to \$85 billion. 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.

France's population of 61.5 million people is considered high income
with \$28,700 per capita. As per the French Institute for Statistics and
Economic Studies (INSEE), the French gross domestic product (GDP)
bottomed out with 0.5 percent growth in real terms in 2003, after
steadily declining from its high of 4.2 percent growth in 2000.
Household consumption growth was smaller than expected in 2002, while
corporate investment growth was poor and export growth slowed due to the
sluggishness of the euro zone economy and the exchange rate effects of
the strong euro. The inflation rate remained relatively moderate (2.2
percent in December 2003 compared to December 2002).

The outlook for 2004 is for 2.3-2.5 percent GDP growth. GDP growth
recovered in the first half of 2004, essentially driven by household
consumption growth. Reviving exports and corporate investment are
expected to combine with household consumption growth in the second half
of 2004. The inflation rate decelerated to 2.4 percent in August after
accelerating in the second quarter of 2004 mainly due to increases in
oil prices. Despite the economic recovery, the unemployment rate is
likely to stay high, close to 9.9 percent until the end of the year, due
to job cuts and low job creation.

The outlook for 2005 is still heavily dependent on global economic
recovery, moderate oil prices, and the results of macro-economic
policies, notably in the U.S. and Europe. The Government forecasts GDP
growth of 2.5 percent, confident that the labor market will benefit from
2004's economic growth, 2004 measures to boost consumption and
investment, and a five-year Social Cohesion Plan designed to tackle high
unemployment, increase opportunities for the disadvantaged, and boost
public housing.

The French economy functions close to its growth potential, which is
currently 2.3 percent based on current population and technological
trends. Coping with increased competition due to the introduction of the
euro and the enlargement of the EU requires further deregulation and
reduction of the role of the state in the economy. Despite significant
reform and privatization over the past 18 years, the role of the state
has diminished only gradually: Government spending, at 54.7 percent of
GDP in 2003, is among the highest in the G-7, and the government
continues to own shares in corporations in a range of sectors. On a
positive note, the Government was successful in introducing pension
reform in 2003, and health insurance reform in 2004, but is currently
struggling to reduce the budget deficit. The next phase of domestic
economic challenges includes scaling back the role of the state in the
economy, reforming the tax structure, and eliminating further labor
rigidities. The current administration\'s objective is to introduce
increasing flexibility into the law, encouraging a return to the 39-hour
workweek in the private sector.

## 2. Size and Growth Rate for Consumer-Ready Food Products 

In 2003, total French food and beverage purchases amounted to \$58.8
billion, reflecting an overall stable consumption compared to 2002. The
hot summer of 2003 heavily influenced household consumption with a
decrease in meat and poultry consumption (2.4 percent and 4.9 percent
respectively); fresh fish and seafood consumption declined by 1.7
percent in volume; while the rise in consumption started in 1999 for
those products continued in 2003 for canned and prepared fish showing an
increase of 2.4 percent.

During calendar year 2003, late frost and dryness affected fruit and
vegetable supplies pushing prices up and resulting in a decrease in
consumption. However, the hot summer of 2003 contributed to a strong
rise in ice cream consumption (+12.8 percent), as well as purchases of
fruit juices and aromatized beverages (+8.4 percent). Wine consumption
decreased 5.2 percent, alcoholic beverages including Champagne and
sparkling wines declined 1.6 percent in 2003, compared to 2002; the
French Government's efforts to stop drinking and driving has hurt wine
consumption and benefited consumption of low alcohol beverages such as
beer and cider.

Overall food and beverage prices for 2003 increased 2.2 percent,
compared to 2.3 percent in 2002. The prices for sugar and confectionery,
salt, spices and sauces, coffee, tea and cocoa increased an average of 4
percent, as well as fruits and vegetables, while prices for oils, dairy,
fish and seafood and meat increased only 1.8 percent. Bread and cereals
increased 2.5 percent, compared to 2002.

The outlook for food and beverage prices in 2004 suggest an overall 1.5
percent increase, coming mostly from meat, bread and fresh pastries
(2.4, 3.5 and 2.5 percent respectively), compared to 2003.

## 3. Key Demographic Developments 

## 

Government programs to raise the country's birth rate have worked, when
compared to other EU Member States. While this growth will slow down in
the next few years, France will be one of the few EU member states to
experience population growth by 2050. As of January 1, 2003 the
preliminary estimates indicate a total of 61.5 million habitants,
including 1.8 million for overseas departments. (Preliminary 2003
figures show that the number of births is slightly decreasing. Deaths
increased reaching 560,300, compared to 544,148 in 2002; however, French
women retain the record of life length in Europe). Immigration in France
slightly decreased in 2003, vs 2002, and remains the lowest in the
European Union compared to the total population.

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

***(As of January 1)***

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

  1995           57.8           15.1           34.0           8.7

  1999           58.5           15.0           34.2           9.3

  2000           58.7           15.0           34.3           9.4

  2001           59.0           15.0           34.5           9.5

  2002 (P)       59.3           15.0           34.7           9.6

  2003 (P)       59.6           15.0           34.9           9.7

  2004 (P)       59.9           15.0           35.1           9.8
  -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- --------------

P = Preliminary - Source: INSEE PREMIERE -

France: Demographic Evolution of Households (in millions)

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

  1990                                21.5

  1998                                23.7

  1999                                23.8

  2000                                24.2

  2001                                24.4

  2002                                24.6

  2003                                24.9
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

Source: INSEE - Enquête Budget Famille

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

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

-   Working consumers or those living alone (30 percent) have no time to
    prepare meals. These market segments are moving toward
    easy-to-prepare foods, single and double portion packs, and frozen
    or microwavable meals.

-   The \"younger\" generation (26 percent) tends to be curious and
    enjoy trying new products. This generation values products with an
    image along with \"good\" taste.

-   The BSE as well as other food 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.

    ***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 are making      |
|     urban regions is boosting     |     French consumers more         |
|     demand for international food |     cautious.                     |
|     in the latter.                |                                   |
|                                   | -   French consumers make         |
| -   French per capita income is   |     exacting demands when it      |
|     near that of the United       |     comes to quality and          |
|     States.                       |     innovation.                   |
|                                   |                                   |
| -   The burgeoning tourist        | -   Price competition is fierce   |
|     industry is raising demand    |     and U.S. exporters have to    |
|     for                           |     conform to French/European    |
|                                   |     standards and regulations.    |
|    Hotel/Restaurants/Institutions |                                   |
|     products.                     | -   Certain food ingredients are  |
|                                   |     banned or restricted from the |
| -   U.S. fast food chains, theme  |     French market.                |
|     restaurants, and the food     |                                   |
|     processing industry are       | -   Marketing costs to increase   |
|     pushing up demand for         |     consumer awareness are high.  |
|     American food ingredients.    |     U.S. exporters should be able |
|                                   |     to evaluate their export      |
| -   Domestic distribution systems |     sales price based on          |
|     are efficient.                |     fundamentals such as local    |
|                                   |     demand and transportation     |
| -   The euro ease entry into and  |     costs.                        |
|     dealings with EU member       |                                   |
|     states.                       | -   Mandatory customs duties,     |
|                                   |     sanitary inspections and      |
| -   American food and food        |     labeling requirements are     |
|     products remain quite popular |     onerous measures for U.S.     |
|     in spite of recent US-France  |     exporters.                    |
|     trade differences.            |                                   |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

# 

# SECTION II. EXPORTER BUSINESS TIPS 

## 1. Trade Barriers and Restrictions

## 

Like other members of the European Union, France imposes tariff and
non-tariff barriers. Product safety and sanitary standards affecting
imports into France are increasingly established at the EU level, and
sometimes there are additional French regulations that impede trade.
Food products entering the EU and France are subject to customs duties
which vary depending on type of products. Most processed products are
subject to additional import charges based on the product contents of
sugar, milk fat, milk protein and starch.

Although France is not a closed market, its regulations limit market
access for certain U.S. agricultural products. 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 which, overtime, will be reduced or abolished.
Agricultural products subject to French trade restrictions and barriers
include, but are 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 Post 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 have a network of bilateral and
regional trade agreements -some with countries that are candidates for
accession to the EU\-- that is expanding rapidly. The EU has entered
into customs union agreements (with Turkey and Andorra) and 26 free
trade agreements under either GATT Article XXIV or GATS Article V. There
are 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, Slovenia,
Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan, Egypt,
Lebanon, Syria and Algeria. Free Trade Agreements with Mexico and South
Africa were concluded in 1999. The EU provides non-reciprocal
preferential access to its markets ACP to countries (African, Caribbean
and Pacific developing countries) under the Cotonou Agreement, and to
other developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences
(GSP).

## 2. Consumer Tastes, Preferences and Food Safety

-   Like U.S. consumers, French consumers want innovative and
    international foods. Young consumers like ethnic products with
    distinctive themes and flavors, in 2003, 75 percent of French
    consumers eat ethnic foods representing a market of \$170 million
    (excluding fresh products) in 2002, an annual growth of 8.3 percent.
    In Paris, one out of two new restaurants is based on a \"world
    food\" concept, and all supermarket chains offer ethnic foods under
    their private labels. On the ethnic segment, consumers always need
    new products. The trends in France are currently for Thai, Northern
    and Southern African as well as 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 food products, seafood (particularly salmon), wild rice,
    innovative dietetic/health products, organic products, frozen
    desserts and kosher foods are 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. There are labeling
    requirements for both domestically-produced and imported food
    products containing biotechnology or biotech derived ingredients or
    additives.

-   After the different food scares, the French Government has taken
    steps to improve food safety and explore product innovation through
    research and marketing programs; quality marks such as "Label
    Rouge"(Red Label) for meats, poultry and fruits and vegetables, 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 the certification program which
    guarantees that product preparation, manufacturing, packaging
    processes follow certain specifications. All these quality marks are
    well received by French consumers who still need to be reassured in
    the products they consume. The organic food program certifies that
    agricultural and food products were manufactured

> without fertilizers and according to special criteria. GOF recently
> launched
>
> a new development program hoping to make France an European leader in
> organic agriculture.

## 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 make sure 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 and tastings can help

> 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 he
    wants, not what you think he needs, 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, SUSTA, WUSATA and MIATCO. (Addresses, telephone,
    fax and contact information for these four groups is 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 (\$14,150) 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*

    For biotech labeling and traceability (T&L) and on Novel Feed/Novel
    Food, two new EU Regulations have recently been published. 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
    their market release. A unique code will be attributed to each
    genetic event to facilitate communication among operators. The T&L
    Regulation impose 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 won\'t be compulsory is
    set at 0.9% for both human food and animal feed.

    For more details, see the French Ministry of Agriculture website on
    biotech:
    http://ogm.agriculture.gouv.fr/savoir_plus/fiches/fiche6.htm.

    ***Inspection Process***

```{=html}
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```
-   Customs clearance can be done by a person or a company able to
    present Customs Authorities at the port of entry or at the airport
    in France the imported goods as well as the necessary accompanying
    documents for these products. To facilitate the clearance process,
    it is recommended that the U.S. exporter 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
chocolate and

candies

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

# SECTION III. MARKET SECTOR STRUCTURE AND TRENDS 

# 

## Key Figures for the French Food Industry and Growth Rates 

## 

-   The food industry is the largest French industrial sector,
    accounting for 25 percent of the total economy's added value. It is
    also the world's largest player accounting for 10 percent of the
    world's value-added food trade.

-   France has currently 30 major food processors, and over 3,100 food
    industry companies.

-   According to the French Food Industry Association (ANIA), in 2003
    the food processing sector' s turnover was 136 billion Euros
    (\$153.8 billion), an increase of 1.5 percent from the 2002 level.
    The French food processing industry is number one in Europe before
    Germany and world number two after the United States.

-   In 2003, the French food industry continued to restructure in the
    face of greater competition from large multinational groups and of
    the globalizing effects of the Euro.

-   Total Exports in 2003: 28.6 billion Euros (\$32.4 billion), 0.4
    percent decrease in value over 2002. The French food industry is the
    world's largest exporter of processed products with about 10 percent
    of the global market.

-   Total Imports in 2003: 20.4 billion Euros (\$23.1 billion), 0.5
    percent decrease in value over 2002.

## Production of Major French Food Processing Sectors (1) and Growth Rates 

  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
                    Volume % Growth   Price % Growth    2003 Value (In
                    2003/2002         2003/2002         billion \$)
                                                        \--Incl. Taxes\--

  Grains and animal -1.1              -2.0              14.4
  feed                                                  

  Canned fruits and +1.8              +0.8              10.6
  vegetables and                                        
  fruit juices                                          

  Bread & Pastry    -1.4              +3.1              16.1

  Meat Industry     -0.2              +0.3              35.7

  Milk Industry     +0.2              +0.3              20.7

  Beverages         +4.9              +0.3              20.2
  Industry                                              

  Fats and Oils     -1.1              +2.7              1.8

  Sugar             -6.7              +0.4              4.1

  Miscellaneous (2) +0.6              +3.3              15.8

  Total of Food     +0.4              +0.7              139.4
  Processing                                            
  Sectors                                               
  ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

\(1\) Wine production is not a food industry but agricultural activity.

\(2\) Chocolate, confectionery, pasta, tea, coffee, condiments, sauces
and spices, beverage preparations, baby foods and canned desserts.

Source: INSEE - National Account

## Infrastructure Situation

France's transportation infrastructure is among the most sophisticated
in the world, benefiting from advanced technology and extraordinary
investment by the Government. The three main entry points for
air-freight are the 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. The French \"Minitel\" telephone-based
computer network is also widespread and provides many consumer services.
France is behind the U.S. and some other countries in the use of
personal computers and the Internet, but is catching up rapidly.
High-speed Internet access is expanding rapidly. The government
continues promoting better use of information technologies.

## 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
are contributing to France's import demand for food products from the
United States. Generally, high quality food products with a regional
American image can find a niche in the French market, particularly if
they can 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 foods.

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

## 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 them 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. A basic assumption should be that everything will not always be
as it is in the U.S. 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 Institutions (HRI) sector in France usually uses
the services of wholesalers or processed food buyers, and the well
developped 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 on the above website.

# SECTION IV. BEST HIGH-VALUE PRODUCT PROSPECTS 

Significant market opportunities for consumer food/edible fishery
products exist 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 and kosher foods which have seen growing
demand. 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 which the Office of
Agricultural Affairs considers \"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**

Commodity Code Number: HS Code: 03 (in million dollars)

> 2001 2002 2003

(Jan-Dec)

A. Total Market Size 3,430 3,676 4,080

B. Local Production 1,391 1,544 1,600

C. Total Exports 987 1,086 1,305

D. Total Imports 3.026 3,218 3,785

E. Total Imports from U.S 113 141 137

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00 = Euros 1.116 Euros 1.057 Euros 0.884

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** France is a net importer and growing market for seafood
and the United States is one of the top ten suppliers to France. U.S.
seafood shipped to France consists mainly of dogfish, monkfish, lobster,
salmon, and surimi base. Fish and seafood products selling the best in
France are fish fillets and ready-to-eat seafood products. French demand
for surimi, lobster, scallops and fresh packed fish is increasing and
offers potential niche market opportunities.

In 2002, France produced 868,738 MT of seafood (latest data available)
(wild catch plus aquaculture), for a value of 1,632 million Euros. The
domestic supply cannot keep up with the growing demand. Despite tough
competition from EU countries, China and Chile, the U.S. seafood sector
is in an excellent position to export to the French market; however,
only seafood processed in an EU-certified establishment is allowed to
enter the EU market and France. Fish exports to France must be free of a
prohibited additive called sodium tri-phosphate.

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

**FRUIT JUICES**

Commodity Code Number: HS Code: 20 (in million dollars)

> 2001 2002 2003

(Jan-Dec)

A. Total Market Size 8,308 6,083 8,164

B. Local Production 7,706 5,345 7,188

C. Total Exports 784 808 1,235

D. Total Imports 1,386 1,546 2,211

E. Total Imports from U.S. 33 33 60

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00 = Euros: 1.116 Euros: 1.057 Euros: 0.884

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 for fruit juices estimated to 20 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 2003, French
imports of fruit juices totaled about 629 million Euros (\$711 million).
Imports from the United States mostly consist of fresh and frozen orange
and grapefruit juices and amounted to 32 million Euros (\$36 million) in
2003. Competition 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**

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

> 2001 2002 2003

(Jan-Dec)

A. Total Market Size 7,554 9,233 13,097

B. Local Production 13,799 16,215 21,589

C. Total Exports 7,857 8,776 10,627

D. Total Imports 1,612 1,794 2,135

E. Total Imports from U.S. 43 57 54

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00 = Euros 1.116 Euros: 1.057 Euros: 0.884

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** In 2003. French imports of U.S. wine totaled 14 million
Euros (\$16 million), representing 3 percent of total French wine
imports in value. Most American wines sold in France are bulk wines.
U.S. wines in France face strong competition from France's leading
suppliers (Italy, Spain, 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 2003, U.S.
spirits imports in France were valued at 31 million Euros (\$35 million)
representing five percent of total French spirits imports estimated at
654 million Euros (\$740 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 24 breweries with two
American brewers present in the French market: Anheuser-Bush and Miller.
The French beer market is valued at 2,035 million Euros (\$2,302
million), 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 39 liters.

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

Commodity Code Number: HS 08 (in million dollars)

> 2001 2002 2003

(Jan-Dec)

A. Total Market Size 3,307 3,281 3,518

B. Local Production 2,380 2,404 2,145

C. Total Exports 1,307 1,506 1,714

D. Total Imports 2,234 2,383 3,087

E. Total Imports from U.S. 87 115 132

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00 = Euros: 1.116 Euros: 1.057 Euros: 0.884

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments:** Off-season and extended-season sales, as well as years of
short French fruit crops, represent the best opportunities for U.S.
suppliers. France is one of the most important markets for U.S.
grapefruit (mostly from Florida), valued at 31 million Euros (\$35
million) in 2003, representing a commanding 43 percent of total French
imports. France also imports apples and pears (in short crops times).
There is also a niche market for berries, cherries and tangerines. In
2003, U.S. fresh fruit exports to France were valued at 117 million
Euros (\$132 million).

The snack and nut product niche market is important for U.S. exporters,
who can profit from promoting their products as healthy and
high-quality. 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.

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

Commodity Code Number: Hs Code: 07 (in million dollars)

> 2001 2002 2003

(Jan-Dec)

A. Total Market Size 5,880 5,940 4,988

B. Local Production 5,590 5,646 4,550

C. Total Exports 1,174 1,358 1,630

D. Total Imports 1,464 1,652 2,068

E. Total Imports from U.S. 20 18 24

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00 = Euros: 1.116 Euros: 1.057 Euros: 0,884

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 may be 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. rice exports to France decreased 32 percent in value during 2003,
compared to 2002 to reach \$13 million; while dried beans imports from
the United States increased 17 percent valued at \$9.6 million, and
lentil imports remained stagnant to reach \$424,208. However, these
products offer large opportunities for U.S. suppliers.

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

Commodity Code Number: HS Code: 02 (in million dollars)

> 2001 2002 2003

(Jan-Dec)

A. Total Market Size 6,476 7,812 7,640

B. Local Production 6,590 7,938 7,820

C. Total Exports 2,534 2,586 3,156

D. Total Imports 2,420 2,460 2,976

E. Total Imports from U.S. 24 16 20

F. Exchange Rate: USD 1.00 =Euros: 1.116 Euros: 1.057 Euros: 0.884

Source: French Customs/SCEES - French Ministry of Agriculture

**Comments**: Opportunities in this market are limited given the import
quota on meat and stringent EU regulations in regard to hormone treated
beef. Most meat imports from the United States are horsemeat which were
valued at \$16 million in 2003, while beef imports amounted to
\$786,200. Bison meat is getting more and more popular in France; most
of French imports originate from Canada, but there might be
opportunities there for U.S. products.

# 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 2005

***For Trade Shows in Calendar Year 2006, please visit FAS/Paris
Homepage at:***

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

SIRHA (International Food Service and Gastronomic Trade Exhibition)

USDA-endorsed

January 22-26, 2005

Lyon - Eurexpo

Biennial Show

Organizer: Sepelcom

Marie-Odile Fondeur

Tel: (33-4) 72 22 32 68

Fax: (33-4) 72 22 32 18

Email: mofondeur@sepelcom.com

Internet: www.sirha.com

SALON INTERNATIONAL DE L'AGRICULTURE International Agricultural Show

Paris Porte de Versailles

February 26-March 6, 2005

Organizer: Comite des Expositions de Paris

Tel: (33-1) 49 09 6000

Fax: (33-1) 49 09 6158

E-mail: [agriculture@comite-expo-paris.asso.fr]{.underline}

Internet: [http://www.comite-expo-paris-asso.fr]{.underline}

Annual Show

TEXWORLD International Textile Manufacturers

March 8-11, 2005

CNIT - Paris La Défense

Organizer: Messe Frankfrut France S.A.S.

Tel: (33-1) 55 26 8989

Fax: (33-1) 40 35 0900

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

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

LE CUIR A PARIS International Leather Products Show

Paris/Porte de Versailles

March 9-10, 2005

Organizer: Sic SA

Tel: (33-1) 43 59 0569

Fax: (33-1) 43 59 3002

Email: contactsic@sicgroup.com

Internet: www.lecuiraparis.com

Held twice a year (every six months)

PREMIERE VISION International Textile & Clothing

March 9-12, 2005 Show

Parc des Expositions Paris-Nord Villepinte

Organizer: Premiere Vision le Salon

Tel: (33-4) 72 60 6500

Fax: (33-4) 72 60 6500

Email: info@premierevision.fr

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

EXPO ZOO Pet food & pet products Trade Show

March 20-22, 2005

Paris, Parc des Expositions Paris-Nord Villepinte

Biennial Show

Organizer: Prodaf

Tel: (33-1) 53 57 62 44

Email: veronique.eury@europ.expo.com

Internet: www.expozoo.com

SALON DES MARQUES DE DISTRIBUTEURS

ALIMENTAIRES - MDD RENCONTRES International Private Label Show

April 5-6, 2005 for foods

Parc des Expositions Pte de Versailles/Paris

Organizer: JANGIL

Tel: (33-5) 53 36 7878

Fax: (33-5) 53 36 7879

Email: jangil@wanadoo.fr

Internet: www.jangil.fr

INTERSUC & SALON DE LA BOULANGERIE International Chocolate, Sugar

April 20-24, 2005 & Bakery Trade Show

Paris- Porte de Versailles

Organizer: Lafayette Developpement - Alain Urbain

Tel: (33-1) 42 85 1820

Fax: (33-1) 40 16 0145

Email: [intersuc@aol.com]{.underline}

Annual Show

FOIRE INTERNATIONALE DE PARIS International Food, Beverages &

Paris Porte de Versailles Tourism Fair

May 12-22, 2005

Organizer: Comite des Expositions de Paris

Tel: (33-1) 49 09 6000

Fax: (33-1) 49 09 6003

E-Mail: [info@comite.expo.paris.asso.fr]{.underline}

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

Annual Fair

WORLD ETHNIC FOOD & SPECIALTY SHOW,

KOSHER AND HALAL PRODUCTS International Ethnic & Specialty

Porte de Versailles, Paris Foods (including Kosher and Halal

June 7-8, 2005 Sections)

Organizer: Algodoal

Tel: (33-1) 45 23 8111

Fax: (33-1) 45 23 8120

[E-mail: ethnicfoodmail@aol.com]{.underline}

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

Annual Show

VINEXPO International Wine and Spirits

June 19-23, 2005 Show

Bordeaux, Bordeaux-Lac

Biennial Show

Organizer: Vinexpo

Contact: Philippe Dufau

Tel: (33-5) 56 56 0022

Fax: (33-5) 56 56 0000

Email: info@vinexpo.fr

Internet: www.vinexpo.fr

SALON DE LA PRODUCTION ANIMALE International Livestock Production

Carrefour Europeen - Rennes Show

September 13-16, 2005

Organizer: SPACE

Tel: (33-2) 99 67 1020

Fax: (33-2) 99 67 7845

Email: info@space.fr

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

Annual Show

PREMIERE VISION International Textile & Clothing

September 20-23, 2005 Show

Parc des Expositions Paris-Nord Villepinte

Organizer: Premiere Vision le Salon

Tel: (33-4) 72 60 6500

Fax: (33-4) 72 60 6500

Email: info@premierevision.fr

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

LE CUIR A PARIS International Leather Products Show

Paris/Porte de Versailles

September 21-23, 2005

Organizer: Sic SA

Contact: Beatrice Rousseau

Tel: (33-1) 43 59 0569

Fax: (33-1) 43 59 3002

Email: contactsic@sicgroup.com

Internet: www.lecuiraparis.com

Held twice a year (every six months)

TEXWORLD International Textile Manufacturers

September, 2005

CNIT - Paris La Défense

Organizer: Messe Frankfrut France S.A.S.

Tel: (33-1) 55 26 8989

Fax: (33-1) 40 35 0900

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

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

NATEXPO Organic, Natural Food and Food

October 15-17, 2005 Supplements Trade Show

Paris, Porte de Versailles

Biennial Show

Organizer: Comexpo

Contact: David Puget

Tel: (33-1) 49 09 60 68

Fax: (33-1) 49 09 60 03

Email: info@comexpo-paris.com

Internet: www.comexpo-paris.com

BATIMAT Building & Construction Show

Paris, Porte de Versailles

November 7-12, 2005

Biennial Show

Organizer: Reed Exposition France

Contact: Christine Lacaze

Tel: (33-1) 47 56 51 02

Fax: (33-1) 47 56 08 18

Email: christine_lacaze@reedexpo.fr

Internet: www.batimat.com

FOOD INGREDIENTS EUROPE (FIE) International Food Ingredients Show

(USDA endorsed)

November 29-December 1, 2005

Parc des Expositions -- Paris-Nord Villepinte

Organizer: Expoconsult B.V.

trading as CMP Information

Tel: 31 346 559 444

Fax: 31 346 573 811

Email: FI@cmpinformation.com

Internet: www.fi-events.com

# APPENDIX B

# 

# U.S. BASED STATE REGIONAL TRADE GROUPS

FOOD EXPORT USA - NORTHEAST

Public Ledger Building, Suite 1036

150 South Independence Mall West

Philadelphia, PA 19106-3410

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

E-Mail: Eusafec@foodexportusa.org

Web: www.foodexportusa.org

Contact: Tim Hamilton, Executive Director

MID-AMERICA INTERNATIONAL AGRI-TRADE COUNCIL (MIATCO)

400 West Etrie Street, Suite 100

Chicago, Illinois 60610

Tel: (312) 944-3030/Fax: (312) 944-1144

E-Mail: info@miatco.org

Web: www.miatco.org

Contact: Tim Hamilton, Executive 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: www.susta.org

Contact: James Ake, 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: [www.finance.gouv.fr]{.underline}

*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: [www.agriculture.gouv.fr]{.underline}

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

Centre de Renseignements Douaniers

84, rue d'Hauteville

75010 Paris

Tel: (33-1) 53 24 6818/Fax: (33-1) 53 24 6830

Email: [dgdddicrt01@calva.net]{.underline}

# STATISTICS

## TABLE A. KEY TRADE AND DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION FOR 2003

  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  Ag. Imports from All Countries (1)  \$35,042million

  U.S. Market Share (1)               2.4 percent

  Consumer Food Imports from All      \$20,215 million
  Countries (1)                       

  U.S. Market Share (1)               1.8 percent

  Edible Fishery Imports from All     \$3,632 million
  Countries (1)                       

  U.S. Market Share (1)               3.7 percent

  Total Population/Annual Growth Rate 61.5 million - Growth rate annual:
  (2)                                 0.5%

  Urban Population /Annual Growth     48 million - Annual Growth rate:
  Rate (3)                            N/A

  Nmber of Metropolitan Areas (4)     4

  Size of the Middle Class (5)        85 percent of total population

  Per Capita Gross Domestic Product   \$28,625.00

  Unemployment Rate                   9.8 percent

  Percent of Female Population        49 percent
  Employed (6)                        

  Exchange Rate: US\$1 = EURO 0.884   
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

Footnotes:

\(1\) United Nations Statistical Data

\(2\) Preliminary figures

\(3\) 1999 Population census

\(4\) Population in excess of 1,000,000

\(5\) 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 represent 85%
of the population

\(6\) Percent against total number of women (15 years old or above)

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

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

  (In Millions of         2001        2002     2003     2001        2002   2003   2001      2002   2003
  Dollars)                                                                                         

                                                                                                   

  **CONSUMER-ORIENTED     18,611      16,814   20,215   336         312    372    2         2      2
  AGRICULTURAL TOTAL**                                                                             

  Snack Foods (Excl.      1,576       1,489    1,866    3           3      8      0         0      0
  Nuts)                                                                                            

  Breakfast Cereals &     212         199      232      1           1      1      0         0      0
  Pancake Mix                                                                                      

  Red Meats,              2,229       1,927    2,258    28          15     19     1         1      1
  Fresh/Chilled/Frozen                                                                             

  Red Meats,              551         474      592      1           1      1      0         0      0
  Prepared/Preserved                                                                               

  Poultry Meat            351         274      355      1           1      0      0         0      0

  Dairy Products (Excl.   1,676       1,284    1,519    2           1      1      0         0      0
  Cheese)                                                                                          

  Cheese                  787         678      823      1           0      0      0         0      0

  Eggs & Products         111         102      142      9           5      6      8         5      4

  Fresh Fruit             2,188       1,934    2,495    34          35     41     2         2      2

  Fresh Vegetables        1,303       1,240    1,540    2           2      3      0         0      0

  Processed Fruit &       1,883       1,779    2,095    33          29     33     2         2      2
  Vegetables                                                                                       

  Fruit & Vegetable       560         548      711      38          33     37     7         6      5
  Juices                                                                                           

  Tree Nuts               280         257      304      68          78     88     24        31     29

  Wine & Beer             844         731      888      15          16     16     2         2      2

  Nursery Products & Cut  952         909      1,119    2           1      1      0         0      0
  Flowers                                                                                          

  Pet Foods (Dog & Cat    160         159      230      5           5      2      3         3      1
  Food)                                                                                            

  Other Consumer-Oriented 2,947       2,830    3,049    96          88     116    3         3      4
  Products                                                                                         

                                                                                                   

  **FISH & SEAFOOD        3,618       3,154    3,632    136         141    136    4         4      4
  PRODUCTS**                                                                                       

  Salmon                  378         327      377      19          11     11     5         3      3

  Surimi                  58          54       58       18          23     22     31        43     38

  Crustaceans             998         856      934      32          26     26     3         3      3

  Groundfish & Flatfish   899         736      912      42          52     45     5         7      5

  Molluscs                339         283      348      14          15     20     4         5      6

  Other Fishery Products  946         898      1,004    11          14     12     1         2      1

                                                                                                   

  **AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS 26,372      23,857   28,469   683         621    659    3         3      2
  TOTAL**                                                                                          

  **AGRICULTURAL, FISH &  32,827      29,393   35,042   904         821    848    3         3      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 

<table>
<colgroup>
<col style="width: 10%" />
<col style="width: 10%" />
<col style="width: 1%" />
<col style="width: 9%" />
<col style="width: 11%" />
<col style="width: 2%" />
<col style="width: 21%" />
<col style="width: 8%" />
<col style="width: 8%" />
<col style="width: 17%" />
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr class="odd">
<td><strong>FRANCE IMPORTS</strong></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="4"><p><strong>CONSUMER-ORIENTED AG TOTAL</strong></p>
<p><strong>($1,000)</strong></p></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td><p><strong>FISH &amp; SEAFOOD PRODUCTS</strong></p>
<p><strong>($1,000)</strong></p></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td></td>
<td><strong>2001</strong></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong>2002</strong></td>
<td><strong>2003</strong></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td><strong>2001</strong></td>
<td><strong>2002</strong></td>
<td><strong>2003</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td><strong>United States</strong></td>
<td><strong>336,116</strong></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong>311,641</strong></td>
<td><strong>372,186</strong></td>
<td></td>
<td><strong>United States</strong></td>
<td><strong>135,753</strong></td>
<td><strong>140,909</strong></td>
<td><strong>135,531</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>Belgium</td>
<td>2,714,099</td>
<td colspan="2">2,380,865</td>
<td>2,888,263</td>
<td></td>
<td>United Kingdom</td>
<td>420,666</td>
<td>347,160</td>
<td>409,177</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>Netherlands</td>
<td>2,576,193</td>
<td colspan="2">2,444,441</td>
<td>2,754,777</td>
<td></td>
<td>Norway</td>
<td>278,388</td>
<td>239,356</td>
<td>295,497</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>Germany</td>
<td>2,540,969</td>
<td colspan="2">2,284,032</td>
<td>2,735,628</td>
<td></td>
<td>Spain</td>
<td>237,425</td>
<td>215,796</td>
<td>234,776</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>Italy</td>
<td>1,749,866</td>
<td colspan="2">1,662,425</td>
<td>1,950,679</td>
<td></td>
<td>Netherlands</td>
<td>204,865</td>
<td>185,281</td>
<td>192,732</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>United Kingdom</td>
<td>761,893</td>
<td colspan="2">722,049</td>
<td>815,082</td>
<td></td>
<td>Madagascar</td>
<td>127,149</td>
<td>130,905</td>
<td>177,679</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>Morocco</td>
<td>413,133</td>
<td colspan="2">426,457</td>
<td>472,656</td>
<td></td>
<td>Denmark</td>
<td>190,924</td>
<td>156,801</td>
<td>173,083</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>Denmark</td>
<td>402,468</td>
<td colspan="2">316,154</td>
<td>363,642</td>
<td></td>
<td>Ireland</td>
<td>124,513</td>
<td>108,631</td>
<td>111,532</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>Switzerland</td>
<td>262,861</td>
<td colspan="2">265,312</td>
<td>336,664</td>
<td></td>
<td>Iceland</td>
<td>96,327</td>
<td>91,220</td>
<td>111,517</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>New Zealand</td>
<td>214,294</td>
<td colspan="2">233,716</td>
<td>264,237</td>
<td></td>
<td>Belgium</td>
<td>108,525</td>
<td>98,699</td>
<td>99,236</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>Portugal</td>
<td>217,417</td>
<td colspan="2">188,896</td>
<td>235,230</td>
<td></td>
<td>Cote d'Ivoire</td>
<td>97,109</td>
<td>114,369</td>
<td>93,335</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>Cote d'Ivoire</td>
<td>251,187</td>
<td colspan="2">188,360</td>
<td>235,162</td>
<td></td>
<td>Brazil</td>
<td>49,483</td>
<td>51,468</td>
<td>88,108</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td>Israel</td>
<td>209,789</td>
<td colspan="2">162,771</td>
<td>194,131</td>
<td></td>
<td>Morocco</td>
<td>66,885</td>
<td>59,748</td>
<td>77,156</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td>Other</td>
<td>2,541,407</td>
<td colspan="2">2,139,974</td>
<td>2,653,139</td>
<td></td>
<td>Seychelles</td>
<td>51,573</td>
<td>55,627</td>
<td>72,614</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td><strong>World</strong></td>
<td><strong>18,611,155</strong></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong>16,814,278</strong></td>
<td><strong>20,215,316</strong></td>
<td></td>
<td>Other</td>
<td>1,325,493</td>
<td>1,050,046</td>
<td>1,246,298</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td><strong>World</strong></td>
<td><strong>3,617,623</strong></td>
<td><strong>3,154,103</strong></td>
<td><strong>3,632,432</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Source: United Nations Statistics Division