Jersey signs three-year agreement to do business in France

Saturday 22 February 2014

Jersey producers will get to market their wares in at France's biggest farming show for the next three years, under a deal signed this week.

Jersey Royals, Jersey Dairy’s products and local ciders and wine are all on show at the Paris International Agricultural Show (Salon International de l’Agriculture) this week. The show receives almost three-quarters of a million visitors per year and is the biggest event of its kind in France.

Foreign Minister Sir Philip Bailhache said: “We’re delighted to have been invited to form an alliance with La Manche to attend one of France’s most prestigious agricultural shows.

“Working with the General Council of La Manche accentuates and builds on our existing political, economic and cultural links with Normandy. This in turn fosters relationships at a regional and national level and demonstrates the Island’s broad links with and commitment to France.”

Last year the show attracted nearly 700,000 people including the French President and other significant politicians.

The Assistant Minister for the Economy and the Environment, Deputy Carolyn Labey is leading the delegation. Deputy Labey said: “The Salon International de l’Agriculture is a significant event in the French calendar, attracting nearly three quarters of a million visitors last year. So, in addition to building relationships with our La Manche counterparts, it’s also a fantastic business opportunity for Jersey.” 

Deputy Labey added, “A number of producers are coming with us to the show this year, along with tourism and transport representatives. They will help us showcase the range and quality of some of our most iconic products through videos, tastings and promotional materials, and highlight what Jersey can offer as a tourism destination in one of our closest major markets.”

The show runs until March 2.