Exporting to France

Opportunities exist for UK companies across a wide range of sectors, including renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and technology.

There are a number of sectors that could potentially offer some opportunities to Northern Ireland companies.

France is developing its renewable energy capacity, including wind, solar and biogas, through the Government’s Multiannual Energy Programme. The country currently ranks third in EY’s Renewable Country Attractiveness Index (EY, 2019), behind China and the USA, with large projects expected in offshore wind including floating and solar power.

Advanced manufacturing

Advanced manufacturing in France is highly developed and contributes 14% to its GDP (DGE, 2018), particularly the aerospace and automotive sectors. France’s automotive manufacturing accounts for nearly 10% of global production (PWC,2018) and has a full vehicle and equipment supply chain. Its aerospace industry exports €55 billion of its annual outputs (Techniques de l'ingenieur, 2020).

Technology

France is a digital economy, with more than 10,000 start-ups. Technology accounts for more than 4.1% of the country's GDP (UNCTAD, 2019). The "French Tech" initiative brings together the most dynamic digital ecosystems throughout France. The government is focusing on promoting strategic sectors, with a technological component to emerge and develop.

Infrastructure and construction

With a 140 billion euro turnover (FFB, French Building Federation, 2019) and major projects underway, the dynamic construction sector offers growing opportunities. French contractors are open to innovation and interested in BIM (building information modelling) services and digital planning tools. There are also opportunities in clean growth and energy saving techniques, smart cities related goods and services and prefab and renovation expertise.

Retail

France is Europe’s second largest consumer base, with an affluent population. The French retail market is mature, sophisticated and its luxury sector is world-renowned. With high levels of household consumer confidence, it is important to consider factors such as quality and innovation to be attractive in a highly competitive market.