French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced that the government will draft a new bill next summer to ensure better prices for farmers, strengthening their position in negotiations with retailers and consumer goods companies.
Gabriel Attal made the announcement while updating the Egalim law in a speech aimed at easing tensions with farmers ahead of the annual agricultural fair, scheduled to open this weekend. Earlier this month, Gabriel Attal announced an emergency package of measures to support the country's agricultural sector.
Amid inflation, rising raw material prices, and increasing production costs, the Egalim law—intended to guarantee a fixed income for farmers and livestock breeders in France—is not being followed. Retail distribution companies are accused of circumventing the law to force farmers to sell their produce at low prices.
Jérôme Despey, Vice President of the French National Federation and Union of Farmers, stated: "Costs have increased by more than 20%, but the selling price of farmers' products has not increased, and has even decreased."
French farmers are pressuring the government to release the initial results of the emergency measures package before the opening of the fair. The National Union of Farmers' Unions and the Young Farmers' Union announced they will lead a convoy of tractors to the agricultural exhibition in Paris on February 23rd, the day before French President Emmanuel Macron's traditional visit to the agricultural fair. French farmers complain that the government is imposing double standards by requiring farms to grow organic, environmentally friendly produce and raise standards while still ensuring sufficient food supply for the population.
Meanwhile, French organic produce is becoming increasingly expensive compared to imported produce due to stringent inspection standards. As a result, farmers' profits are declining because sales are weak, especially in the context of high inflation leading consumers to tighten their spending. Farmers' associations emphasize their desire for firm assurances that their grievances regarding agricultural prices and management issues will be thoroughly addressed.
VIET LE
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