Agriculture Farming Industry in France
France has the most dominant agriculture industry in the European Union (EU). Over 60 percent of France's land is used for agricultural purposes. Although compared to most countries it would seem as if France's agriculture production methods are old-fashioned, there have been a number of technological innovations incorporated into the industry over the years.
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Structure
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The average farm size in France is 42 hectares (or 103 acres). However, professional farms average 70 hectares (173 acres). As of 2003, 590,000 farms in France were characterized as professional farms. This means the wine, beef and crops are sold for profit, thus supplying jobs to the community.
Workforce
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According to the Encyclopedia of Nations, as of 2001, younger people tend to look for employment outside of family farms. However, this means that others are looking for available jobs in the agriculture industry.
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Crops
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The main crops in France include sugar beets, milk, wine, beef, oilseed and veal. France produces 29 million metric tons of sugar beets a year and is the leader in the EU for this crop. As the second-highest milk-producing nation in the EU, France produces 23.3 million metric tons of milk. The country also produces 1.815 million metric tons of meat.
Methods
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Many old-fashioned methods are used on farms across France, such as hand plowing. The French government has worked since the World War II era to bring modern methods into French agriculture. As of 1997, 86 percent of French farms had at least one tractor.
Livestock
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Half of the agricultural income in France comes from livestock. Cattle are raised in the north and west of France, while sheep and goats are most common in the east and south. Pigs and chickens are also profitable for producers in France, and are found throughout the country.
Exports
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France is best known for its selection of vineyards and fine wine. Wine is the biggest export out of France. Bordeaux, Alsace, Champagne and Burgandy are the most popular wine regions in the country.
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References
- Photo Credit Fortified farm near Nogent le Rotrou in Southern Normandy. image by photohub from Fotolia.com
