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France, a land of agriculture
The sheet helps you link geography and the economy. France is a major farming country, in Europe and in the world.
Key points of the sheet
- France is the leading agricultural power of the European Union. It accounts for 18% of the EU's total production.
- It exports, for example, wheat, wine, dairy products or meat. It imports fruit and vegetables and processed products.
- Half of French territory is used for agriculture. Agriculture shapes the country's landscapes and economy.
- Farming regions are varied thanks to very different climates, relief and soils. The Paris Basin is known for wheat and beet. Brittany and the West are known for raising dairy cows and pigs.
- The South-West is known for livestock farming and maize. The South-East produces fruit, vegetables and wine. Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne or Languedoc are famous for their vineyards.
- Since the 1950s, agriculture has modernised and yields have risen a lot. But this has also created problems: pollution, fewer farmers, loss of land because of urbanisation.
- Today, agriculture must adapt to climate change and reduce chemical products. It must also meet consumers' expectations on quality and the environment.
- For these reasons, more and more farmers choose more sustainable practices. For example: organic farming or short supply chains.
Words to know
- leading agricultural power (première puissance agricole)
- France is the EU's leading agricultural power, with 18% of total production.
- vineyards (vignobles)
- Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne or Languedoc are famous for their vineyards.
- urbanisation
- Because of urbanisation, France is losing farmland.
- organic farming (agriculture biologique)
- It is a more sustainable practice chosen by more and more farmers.
- short supply chains (circuits courts)
- It is a more sustainable practice that more and more farmers turn to.
Test yourself: 3 questions
What share of the EU's agricultural production does France account for?
In French, the language of the exam: Quelle part de la production agricole de l'UE représente la France ?
France accounts for 18% of the EU's total production.
Which region is known for wheat and beet?
In French, the language of the exam: Quelle région est connue pour le blé et la betterave ?
The Paris Basin is known for growing wheat and beet.
What share of French territory is used for agriculture?
In French, the language of the exam: Quelle part du territoire français sert à l'agriculture ?
Half of French territory is used for agriculture.
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Source
Sheet “La France, terre d’agriculture” of the French Ministry of the Interior: formation-civique.interieur.gouv.fr. Content published under the Etalab Open Licence 2.0. This page is a plain-language adaptation made by Hexaciv, which is not an official site: if in doubt, the ministry's text is the one that counts.
Ministry sheet read on 23 October 2026, still identical on 25 October 2026.