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Country Information

France

Management of Rural Development

The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAP) has overall responsibility for rural development policy in France. To manage EU rural development funds the Ministry has established a dedicated Managing Authority with delegated authority to Collectivité Territoriale de Corse (CTC), and to the Prefectures for the French Territories. The Rural Development Policy for France and the overseas departments is defined in a National Strategy Plan (NSP) which reflects EU priorities according to the country’s specific context. There is a comprehensive Rural Development Programme (RDP) for mainland France and five other separate programmes, including one for the Island of Corsica and separate programmes for the four French Departments of Guadeloupe, Guyana, Martinique and Reunion. Rural Development Payments are made by the Service and Payment Agency (ASP) which is an Accredited Paying Agency, with the exception of Corsica, which has its own Office of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Summary of rural development policy objectives

The main strategic aims of rural development policy in France include:

  • Restructuring, modernization and promotion of quality and innovation in the primary sector;
  • Supporting the multi-functionality of agriculture and rural areas;
  • Preservation of agricultural activity in disadvantaged areas;
  • Improvement in the living conditions and promotion of the attractiveness of rural areas ;
  • Promoting the creation of employment and a better quality of life in rural areas.

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