May 17th 2024

In 2023, French Agrotech companies experienced a dynamic export market, with an average annual growth rate of 4.4% since 2018. This growth was driven by emerging markets in Northern Europe and Southeast Asia, and by high-value products like wines.

Mixed trends in Export performance

However, this positive trend is tempered by a 46% decline in trade surplus compared to 2022, affected by significant drops in key sectors: cereals (down 33%) and wines (down 3%).

The overall decrease in French agricultural and agri-food product exports in 2023 (2.8% lower than 2022) can be attributed to the year’s challenging context: inflation, the war in Ukraine, cereal market instability, and climatic events.

Processed goods show resilience

While raw agricultural products suffered, processed goods from the agri-food industry (IAA) fared better, thanks to growth in key segments like bakery, pastry, and prepared foods.

Regional growth highlights

Encouragingly, French exports saw an uptick across various global regions: Southeast Asia imports from France grew by 5%, with Singapore alone increasing by 16%, climbing to the 12th largest importer of French agri-food products. Similar growth was seen in exports to Northern Europe and Central Asia, regions where France is actively pursuing economic and diplomatic ties, including with countries like Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan.

Key product growth

Sugar and confectionery, France’s 10th most exported agri-food products, saw a significant increase in exports across several regions: up 23% in the European Union, 32% in North Africa, 22% in Sub-Saharan Africa, and 15% in Oceania.

Europe: The primary market

Europe remains the primary market for French exports, with 70% of products heading there. Belgium and Germany are the top destinations, accounting for 11% of the market share, followed by Spain (9%) and Italy (8.5%). Key exports include dairy products (up 3% from 2022 to 2023), cereals (down 25%), and wines (stable).

Outlook for 2024

As we move into 2024, France aims to maintain its position as the 5th largest global exporter of agri-food products and equipment, and perhaps even rise to 4th place. The resilience of French Agrotech companies, despite global challenges, highlights opportunities for innovation and growth in emerging markets.

To explore more about French agri-food products and connect with suppliers, visit our Food and Beverage section on the Business France Marketplace.