Sectoral Competitiveness
Different sectors face varying global dynamics:
Agriculture and Food
France leverages terroir and quality: - Wine exports reaching €11 billion - Cheese and dairy global recognition - Grain exports feeding world - Organic and sustainable positioning - Competition from New World producers
Philippe Lefebvre, the Chablis winemaker from Chapter 2, explains evolution:
"Twenty years ago, we sold mostly in France. Now 70% goes abroad—USA, China, Japan. We compete on quality and origin, not price. Our terroir story resonates globally, but we must constantly innovate while respecting tradition."
Manufacturing
French manufacturing niches globally: - Aerospace leadership maintained - Luxury goods dominating segments - Pharmaceutical innovation - Nuclear technology exports - Struggles in mass production
Services
Services internationalization accelerates: - Engineering exports growing - Financial services post-Brexit opportunity - Tourism requiring constant renewal - Digital services lagging leaders - Cultural exports significant
Energy Transition
Green economy creates opportunities: - Nuclear expertise marketable - Renewable technology development - Energy efficiency solutions - Sustainable transport systems - Carbon management services