French Minister Delegate for Industry and Energy, Marc Ferracci, has affirmed the government's commitment to protecting domestic industries, including the furniture sector, amid mounting Chinese competition.
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Speaking ahead of his visit to the Fonderies de Bretagne on 14 May, Ferracci highlighted the symbolic importance of the plant's recovery and the broader urgency of safeguarding strategic manufacturing jobs. He stated that the steel industry remains essential, calling it 'the industry of industries and represents a vital sector'.
The Minister warned of increasingly aggressive Chinese trade practices, particularly in low-cost goods, including furniture and steel products. 'We will increase checks,' he said, signalling tougher enforcement against unfair competition from imported Chinese parcels.
Ferracci also addressed speculation around the future of major players like Arcelor, rejecting calls for nationalisation. 'Nationalisation would not be appropriate because there are industrial solutions to guarantee employment,' he said, underlining confidence in private-sector routes to stability and growth.
While the interview touched on the steel sector, Ferracci drew direct parallels to the furniture industry, which has also seen growing pressure from imported goods. The government's intensified stance on import controls, paired with its focus on job preservation, marks a clear signal that domestic manufacturing, including high-quality French furniture, remains a national priority.
Ferracci's remarks come at a time of heightened concern over job losses and unfair competition. His visit and policy push reaffirm the state's role in defending industrial heritage and restoring confidence among workers in vulnerable sectors.
Source: www.ouest-france.fr