French Prime Minister Jean Castex promises €1 billion in aid for farms facing massive losses due to late frosts in France. "The state must be able to cope with this disaster," stated the prime minister, assessing the situation at a meeting with senior officials and representatives of agriculture, according to French industry media reports.
Even if the exact damage can only be quantified in a few months, the aid is to be deployed quickly. In addition, there will be tax relief and exemption from social security contributions. The government wants to raise the compensation to 40 percent of the loss of sales, which is why many experts believe that this aid will not be nearly enough. For the winegrowing sector alone, the losses are estimated at around €2 billion. However, the exact extent of the damage is not yet known.
Even if the exact damage can only be quantified in a few months, the aid is to be put to use quickly. In addition, there will be tax relief and exemption from social security contributions. The government wants to raise the compensation to 40 percent of the loss of sales, which is why many experts believe that this aid will not be nearly enough.
Further aid, such as that announced by the regional government of the Var département (Provence) shortly after the frosty nights, should therefore promise short-term relief. Associations such as the Vignerons Indépendants are calling for further aid measures. sw
