France's 2027 budget to include new agricultural support measures

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has pledged to introduce "support and investment measures" for the agricultural sector within the 2027 budget. In a letter published in regional newspapers, Lecornu confirmed ongoing aid for livestock and crop farms impacted by severe drought.

The upcoming budget, slated for presentation in late September, will offer Parliament the opportunity to vote on these crucial measures. This marks Lecornu's third letter to farmers this year, following the validation of an emergency agricultural law by the Constitutional Council. The government emphasizes its commitment to fulfilling promises made to the agricultural community.

In response to the "early and severe drought," Lecornu assured that aid would be swift and substantial. The Minister of Agriculture, Annie Genevard, has already announced targeted financial packages to support farm liquidity and facilitate replanting. Additional funds will be allocated to the public loss compensation system, and the most vulnerable farms may receive reductions in property taxes and social contributions.

Looking ahead, Lecornu intends to propose a "fiscal super-amortization mechanism for agricultural future projects" in the 2027 finance bill. Other planned measures aim to support hydraulic investments, adapt agriculture to climate change, and maintain the competitiveness of French agricultural sectors.

However, the implementation of these promises remains uncertain. The government lacks a clear majority in the National Assembly, and these decisions come just months before the presidential election. Lecornu acknowledged the upcoming political dynamics, stating that Parliament will need to take responsibility for approving the national budget, setting aside political considerations related to the upcoming elections.