France

France is one of the world's major economic powers. Agriculture is important, and about 60% of the land is used for farming.

Over half of the value of agricultural output derives from livestock; leading crops are sugar beet, wheat, corn, barley, and potatoes. Only Italy produces more wine.

Iron ore and bauxite are the leading minerals. Major industrial products include chemicals, textiles, steel, food (particularly cheese), motor vehicles and aircraft.

Tourism is important, as is the production of luxury goods such as perfume.

The railroads, utilities, many banks, and some key industries are nationally owned, but there has been some recent movement toward privatisation.

France has the world's second largest number of operating nuclear power plants, which produce over 75% of its electricity.