Olivia Grégoire and Business France launch an export support program for the arts and crafts sector

The artistic professions are made up of more than 60,000 businesses and 281 activities, with revenues estimated at €19 billion in 2019, of which more than 40% was in exports. Supporting the sector, EPV-certified firms (living heritage businesses) make up an exceptional network of French artisanal and industrial production abroad.

As part of the national strategy for the arts and crafts sector launched in May 2023 by Rima Abdul-Malak, Minister for Culture, and Olivia Grégoire, Minister Delegate for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Trade, Small-Scale Industry and Tourism, this international support program, championed by the French state and Business France, aims to strengthen the export dynamic of arts and crafts businesses and EPVs.

Olivia Grégoire and Laurent Saint-Martin, Chief Economic Officer at Business France, signed an initial framework agreement during a morning dedicated to the promotion of these professions and the building of bridges for their development abroad.

As part of this program, Business France will provide tailor-made support to first-time exporters who have significant international development potential, as well as to businesses that have already developed an export strategy. This support will include carrying out and providing targeted market studies to inform businesses of development opportunities, and a series of services, ranging from help with prospecting and support for the France Pavilions, to the deployment of communication efforts and e-export solutions.

In 2024-2025, the French state and Business France have set an annual target to help 200 to 300 businesses to identify opportunities and court foreign markets.

“The potential for international interest in French ars crafts is immense. Our expertise is fully recognized and desired! However, our craftmen need to be supported to develop opportunities, networks and projects adapted to each region, and to create a real export strategy. Thanks to the international component of our government plan for the arts and crafts industry, and thanks to the commitment of Business France, this ambition is becoming a reality. Our artisans will be able to deploy all their magic and inspire the world.”

Rima Abdul Malak, Minister for Culture

 “We’re lucky in France to boast an exceptional range of expertise. When we have beautiful jewelry, we don’t leave it in a box; we want to show it off to everyone and that’s exactly what we want to do with this program, to enable our craftsmen to shine on the global stage.”

Olivia Grégoire, Minister Delegate for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Trade, Small-Scale Industry and Tourism

“Arts and crafts and living heritage businesses are an exceptional showcase of French expertise on the international stage. It’s an embodiment of French excellence that shines all around the world. These businesses are expected and welcome in foreign markets, and we must give them the tools to increase their impact on exports. It’s in this spirit of conquest that Business France offers a dedicated international support program over three years, with the aim of 1,000 EPVs supported, and 600 businesses launched onto foreign markets.”

Laurent Saint-Martin, Chief Executive Officer at Business France