Agricultural recovery plan discussion planned

Sebastien Lecornu, the French government's minister for the ecology and energy transition, will convene a meeting of ministers on Thursday to discuss the agricultural recovery plan. The plan has been widely anticipated by the agricultural sector, which is facing significant challenges.

Sector views current measures as inadequate

The agricultural sector believes the measures outlined in the 2027 budget proposal are insufficient to address the ongoing crisis. This sentiment is shared by officials at the government, who are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in sectors like viticulture, horticulture, and large-scale farming.

Government concerned about potential protests

The government is worried that the frustration of farmers, who have been heavily impacted by this summer's heatwaves and drought, may resurface in November. This could lead to a fourth consecutive winter of demonstrations, according to sources within the executive.

Emergency funds already allocated

To support the agricultural sector, the government has already allocated 1.2 billion euros in emergency measures from the 2026 budget. This has required other sectors to make savings to help agriculture, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Recovery plan nearing finalization

According to the Minister of Agriculture, Annie Genevard, the recovery plan announced by the Prime Minister is nearly finalized in its scope, including financial aspects. It is expected to be presented as government amendments to the 2027 budget proposal.

Urgency emphasized by officials

Officials within the government stress that the recovery plan cannot wait until after the presidential election, emphasizing that it is a matter of national sovereignty. They warn that without intervention, 30,000 agricultural enterprises may close, underscoring the urgency of the situation.