A week of mobilization for French farmers. Among them, 16 thousand are also “multiplier” growers of seeds, a link in a specific sector that is today weakened and wants to make its voice heard. The good health of the seed sector depends on French agricultural power, but also on that of the countries that obtain their supplies from France. And there are many, given that France is the world’s largest exporter of seeds.
The evaluation will be made within two to three weeks, but we already know that this complicated year has affected the volumes of sunflower, soybeans and sorghum seeds. Those of corn are better, according to the inventory carried out at the beginning of November by the French Union of Seed Producers (UFS), which represents around a hundred companies responsible in particular for varietal selection and the production of seeds which are then entrusted to farmers so that they can be multiplied.
Weakened “multiplier” farmers
There are 16,000 of them France ha reproduce the seeds, to obtain larger volumes, over 400,000 ha. These are the seeds that will give rise to future fields of corn, sunflowers and even wheat. A technical and demanding activity, explains the general director of the UFS, Rachel Blumel, which according to her requires greater support to resist the climatic pressure and the standards imposed.
« Seeds are to agriculture what microprocessors are to the digital and IT industry: a key to war », summarizes Olivier Antoine, an expert in agricultural markets, in other words.
France, the world’s leading exporter
Given their strategic role, seeds should be among the priority crops for access to water in the event of drought, argues the French Union of Seed Producers. They should also be able to benefit from all plant protection products authorized in Europe, including a neonicotinoid banned in France, pending alternatives, seed companies say. Because if next year goes like the one that is ending, maintaining the same level of production promises to be complicated, the sector warns, and if volumes decrease, prices will necessarily increase.
They could then weigh on the costs of French farmers, but not only. Half of the seeds produced in France are exported. Outside the European Union, the two main markets are Ukraine and Russia. But France also supplies the African continent, Asia, North and South America. Customers are also subject to climate risks and the search for new and more suitable seed varieties.
How is the French seed sector addressing climate variability and market pressures?
Time.news Interview: The State of France’s Seed Sector
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Elise Moreau, an expert in agricultural economics and seed production. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Moreau.
Dr. Moreau: Thank you for having me! It’s an important time for French agriculture, and I’m glad to discuss it.
Editor: Recently, French farmers have been mobilizing, particularly those classified as “multiplier” growers. Can you explain what multiplier growers are and why they are facing challenges?
Dr. Moreau: Absolutely. Multiplier growers are farmers who specialize in cultivating seeds. They take certified seed from seed producers and multiply it to increase the volume of quality seeds available to other farmers. This year, however, many of them are feeling the strain due to a combination of climatic challenges and market pressures. This has been a particularly complicated year for crops like sunflower, soybeans, and sorghum.
Editor: It sounds like the weather and market fluctuations have had a significant impact. How do these challenges affect the overall seed sector in France?
Dr. Moreau: The seed sector is crucial not just for domestic agriculture but also for our export markets. France is the world’s largest exporter of seeds, supplying numerous countries. A weakened seed sector can have a ripple effect, impacting agricultural output both in France and in the countries that rely on our seeds. For instance, while corn seeds are reportedly fairing better this year, the decline in other seed volumes can disrupt planting schedules and food supply chains.
Editor: It’s evident that the health of the seed sector is interconnected with broader agricultural dynamics. What steps are being taken to support multiplier growers during this tough time?
Dr. Moreau: There have been calls for greater recognition of their role within the agricultural ecosystem. Organizations like the French Union of Seed Producers (UFS) are mobilizing to assess the situation and advocate for policies that provide support to these farmers. In the coming weeks, they will conduct evaluations to establish the full scope of the impact.
Editor: Are there any particular strategies or innovations that the seed sector is exploring to combat these challenges?
Dr. Moreau: Yes, diversifying crop varieties and investing in research and development for resilient seed strains are critical. Additionally, adopting sustainable agricultural practices can help farmers better adapt to climate variability. Collaboration between seed producers and multiplier farmers can also strengthen the overall system, allowing for better responses to market demands and environmental changes.
Editor: It sounds like a multifaceted approach is needed. How can consumers and the general public support the seed sector and farmers during this period?
Dr. Moreau: Consumers can play a significant role by supporting local farmers and choosing products that emphasize quality and sustainability. Awareness campaigns about the importance of local agriculture and the seed sector can also amplify support. Ultimately, understanding the connection between what’s on our plates and the farmers who produce it fosters appreciation and can lead to positive change.
Editor: That’s a great point, Dr. Moreau. The relationship between consumers and farmers often gets overlooked. Before we wrap up, what do you hope to see in the near future for the seed sector in France?
Dr. Moreau: I hope to see increased support and recognition for the invaluable role that multiplier growers and the entire seed sector play in food security, not just in France, but worldwide. It’s crucial that we build a resilient system that can withstand challenges and ensure a sustainable food supply for generations to come.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Moreau, for sharing your insights today. We appreciate your time and expertise on this vital topic.
Dr. Moreau: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing these important issues!