Seed growing is a maize growing activity in its own right, with maize seed production being a strategic area not only for farming but also for the French economy.
Agreements contracted between more than 4000 specialised farmers and the thirty seed companies based in France cover seed farmed on 47 000 hectares (on average) and producing more than 1 600 hybrid varieties (in 2006), including 36% planted on an experimental basis. The seed produced is then sold, with approximately half going to the domestic market and the other half to the external market, mainly the European Union. France has more than half the seed maize acreage in the 27-member European Union and is the leader in this the second largest seed-growing area in the world. The first is North America, basically the United States which alone farms 300 000 hectares. >> See production figures
The French seed maize production sector dates back to the 1950s with the introduction of hybrid varieties, and has built up substantial experience operating under ideal farming and climate conditions, with the right production facilities, efficient regulatory frameworks and advanced technical know-how. >> Further information
With this combination of optimal features, the French sector has been able to provide seed of fine quality recognised as such by the purchasers.
The position of French seed maize, ranked high for both quantity and quality, is the result of fifty years work by all the professional players involved, working through their different organisations (AGPM MAÏS SEMENCE for seed maize growers, and SEPROMA for seed companies) and their mutual interbranch structure, FNPSMS (French National Federation of Seed Maize & Seed Sorghum Production). >> Professional organisation of the sector
