France Allocates €1 Billion to Aid Heat-Struck Farmers

The Government of France allocated more than €1 billion to support farmers after record-breaking heat waves and wildfires caused significant crop losses during the hottest summer in the nation's history. Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard announced the funding on Friday, describing the allocation as "new money" intended to compensate for drought damage and revive agricultural activity.

The aid package arrives as the country faces a potential recession and a growing budget deficit. Agricultural output has been further strained by rising fuel and fertilizer costs linked to the war in the Middle East.

To provide long-term protection for the industry, the government recently adopted an emergency bill. This legislation expands livestock farming, improves water storage and irrigation systems, and mandates that public cafeterias prioritize French products.