Living in France provides a unique opportunity to start an import export business taking advantage of the country’s central location in Europe. France has one of the largest economies in Europe with over $2.7 trillion in imports and exports.
Whether you want to import popular products to sell in France or export distinctively French items to other countries, there are many options. Below I will suggest 10 import business ideas and 10 export business ideas that seem particularly promising.
I’ve also included some key statistics on French trade and a table with top import/export partners to help you identify good targets for future business. First though, let’s go over a quick introduction to import export in France.
Introduction to Import Export in France
France is known for its fine wines, cheeses, luxury goods, and high-end cosmetics. Many of these make lovely exports. France also imports a wide variety of products to meet domestic demand or re-export to other countries.
Here are some key facts about French trade from the World Trade Organization (WTO):
- Total merchandise trade in 2020: $1,483 billion
- Total imports: $724 billion
- Leading imports: Industrial supplies (32% of imports), capital goods (31%), consumer goods (25%)
- Total exports: $759 billion
- Leading exports: Industrial supplies (27%), capital goods (26%), consumer goods (26%)
France’s Top Trading Partners
Partner | Total Trade | Exports | Imports |
---|---|---|---|
Germany | $235 billion | $137 billion | $97 billion |
United States | $130 billion | $58 billion | $71 billion |
Italy | $104 billion | $57 billion | $46 billion |
Spain | $100 billion | $61 billion | $38 billion |
China | $65 billion | $24 billion | $41 billion |
Now let’s look at the top import and export opportunities for French entrepreneurs.
10 Import Business Ideas for French
Here are 10 promising products French entrepreneurs could import to meet domestic demand or re-export:
1. Electronics from China
China dominates the global electronics manufacturing industry. Importing affordable devices like phones, tablets, drones, headphones, or gaming systems to sell in France could be lucrative.
2. Organic food from Spain and Italy
The French have an appetite for organic food. Imports come from countries like Spain and Italy which have climates suiting organic farming for items like olive oil, tomatoes, fruits, vegetables, grains and more.
3. Fair trade coffee and chocolate from Africa
Fair trade products are popular in France’s gourmet markets. Great potential lies in sourcing directly from farmers co-ops in countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, Uganda and Ethiopia.
4. Natural cosmetics from the Middle East
France’s cosmetics industry is focused on natural ingredients. The Middle East produces unique oils, plant extracts, fragrances and other cosmetic ingredients that French manufacturers seek.
5. Auto parts from Germany
While France makes luxury autos, more affordable everyday cars often use parts sourced from Germany. This makes auto parts a steady import.
6. Vodka from Poland and Russia
Vodka is the fastest growing spirits category in France. Bringing new brands from top vodka producers Poland and Russia has excellent prospects.
7. Denim clothing and textiles from China
Casual clothing like denimwear and basics like sheets and towels are competitively priced imports from China that French retailers want.
8. Wine from Italy and Spain
Though famous for domestic wine, France also imports almost 1 billion Euros worth of wine annually from neighbors Italy and Spain.
9. Tropical fruits from Africa and South America
France enjoys out-of-season fruits thanks to imports of items like bananas, pineapples, mangos and more from Africa and South America.
10. Leather goods from India and Pakistan
For affordable leather goods like handbags, wallets and belts, importers source large volumes from India and Pakistan for French retailers.
10 Export Business Ideas for French
Here are 10 products and services French entrepreneurs could export globally:
1. French Wine
Clearly, exporting France’s legendary wines is an obvious (yet fruitful) export business. There’s tremendous global demand for high-end French reds, whites, champagnes and more.
2. French Culinary Specialty Items
The French art of cuisine is respected worldwide. Export gourmet ingredients like lavender honey, specialized vinegar, truffle oil, foie gras treats and unique sauces.
3. French Skincare Products & Perfumes
France leads in cosmetic innovation and allure. Export luxury skincare creams, masks, serums and perfumes from elegant French brands abroad.
4. French Fashion Designer Goods
Haute couture thrives in Paris. Export upscale clothing, leather goods, shoes, jewelry and accessories from leading French ateliers globally.
5. French Arts & Antiques
French paintings, sculptures and artworks have unmatched prestige. Additionally, the French antique market fascinates decorators in many nations.
6. French Confectioneries
For those with a sweet tooth, France’s confectionery is sublime. Export specialty candies, chocolates, pastries, macarons and cakes overseas.
7. French Luxury Watches
Brands like Cartier epitomize superb French watchmaking. Export French-designed luxury timepieces to eager buyers worldwide.
8. French Live Plants & Flowers
France’s flower varieties and nursery plants are glorious. Export these living botanicals or mature trees globally to gardening firms and plantscapers.
9. French Kitchenware Products
Even basic French cooking wares convey quality. Export appealing French-made pots, pans, utensils, bakeware items, table linens and more to retailers abroad.
10. French Recording/Sound Equipment
For audio engineers across the globe, recording consoles and gear from top French pro audio brands represent the gold standard of excellence.
Final Thoughts
France is known for its diverse economy and strong international trade links. In fact, France was ranked as the 7th largest exporter and 6th largest importer of goods worldwide in 2020. This makes France an excellent place to start an import or export business.
I hope this overview sparks some ideas on potential imports suited to the French market or signature French items primed for export growth.
With its strong infrastructure, central location and institutions supporting trade, France provides a robust platform for entrepreneurs to launch import export businesses.
The opportunities are endless – what ideas do you have?
Please comment below if you have any other suggestions or questions related to starting an import export business in France!