The 61st Salon International de l'Agriculture (SIA) opened its doors on February 22, 2025, at the Parc des Expositions, Porte de Versailles, Paris. This annual event is seen as a cornerstone for agricultural stakeholders, where the challenges and triumphs of the farming community are both showcased and addressed.
At the opening ceremony, French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the event alongside the Moroccan Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, who was honored as the guest of the year. This year's inauguration markedly differed from 2024's tumultuous event, which was marked by protests and significant unrest from the agricultural community. This year, the atmosphere was considerably calmer, reflecting recent initiatives aimed at supporting farmers.
Macron emphasized during his speech the necessity of protecting the interests of French farmers, stating, "Our farmers cannot be the variable adjustment of purchasing power... nor the variable adjustment of agricultural agreements." This acknowledgement resonates deeply with the agricultural community, as many farmers have felt the burden of economic pressures and unfavorable trade agreements.
Addressing these concerns, the French government has recently approved measures to bolster the agricultural sector, including 500 million euros allocated for tax relief and the passage of the long-awaited agricultural orientation law, adopted just two days prior to the salon's opening. Macron's administration believes these steps will mitigate some of the deep-rooted crisis felt within the industry.
Arnaud Rousseau, President of the National Federation of Agricultural Producers’ Unions (FNSEA), provided insight on the situation, noting, "The farmers feel the crisis is not behind them... along with political announcements, the reality is different." These comments underline the disconnect sometimes felt between governmental policy and the everyday experiences of those working the land.
While concerns about domestic policies were prevalent, international trade agreements also shadowed discussions at the SIA. Macron explicitly criticized the Mercosur trade agreement, stating, "It's a bad text as it was signed, and we will do everything to stop it from going forward to protect our food sovereignty." This statement signals the government's intent to advocate fiercely for French agricultural interests amid international trading pressures.
Beyond policy and politics, Macron's engagement extended to personal interactions with local producers. During his tour of the salon, he vowed, "I will come to Roquefort this year, I will come!" This promise to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Roquefort's protected designation of origin (AOP) indicates Macron's commitment to supporting regional agriculture and maintaining close ties with French farmers.
Reflecting on the year prior, attendees commented on the less combative environment. One exhibitor mused, "It would almost feel quiet without the fervor of protests." This relief is attributed to enhanced security measures put in place to prevent unrest. For the first time, mobile police stations have been established within the exhibition halls, ensuring safety and facilitating open dialogue between officials and industry stakeholders.
The event has attracted thousands of visitors eager to engage with the agricultural community, participate in tastings, and appreciate the diversity of French agricultural output. With this year's salon restarting the conversation around the future of farming, stakeholders remain hopeful for continued collaboration and productive discussions.
Nevertheless, the backdrop of tensions remains palpable, as highlighted by Macron's commitment to addressing any potential threats to the sector. Reminding attendees of the significance of international diplomacy, he stated, "Between allies, we cannot hurt each other with tariffs." Such remarks come amid rising tensions with countries like the United States threatening duties on European agricultural products.
Overall, the 2025 Salon International de l'Agriculture appears to be transforming from the turbulence of the previous year to a renewed sense of purpose and cooperation. With policies favoring farmers, steady reminders of their importance, and promises from the highest levels of government, the agricultural community may yet find the support it desperately needs.