December 18, 2007
 

France grants US$3 million aid to pig sector

The French government is bailing out the country's pig industry with grants of EUR 3 million to help farmers pay the interest on loans.

The news of the grant follows weeks after the introduction of export refunds by the EU, which generated much criticism across the Atlantic from US and Canadian hog growers.

The French Minister for Agriculture, Michel Barnier said the new measures will complement those already introduced by the European Commission.

Another loan of up to EUR 30 million may also be on the way.

The cash aid will be available from the beginning of next year and will help in the consolidation of the industry and encourage diversified production.