Protests in France: no difficulties so far for the Italian fruit and vegetable supply sector

Protests and demonstrations against the pension reform proposed by President Emmanuel Macron, which provides for an increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64 years, are still rampant in France. The French are experiencing difficult weeks, with major disturbances, clashes and violence in several cities across the country (about 200). Demonstrations, railroad occupations, suspension of trash removal and even the closure of museums, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre museum. There is great concern for public order, as the level of support for the demonstrations is high. The French government is not backing down and has announced the implementation of the law by the end of 2023.

This is a difficult situation which, however, does not seem to be hindering shipping logistics and, therefore, the supply of fruit and vegetables from Italy. Luca Zuccarella, of the Zuccarella growers' organization in the Basilicata region, which is involved in growing, packing and selling strawberries in Italy and abroad, as well as in France, shared some information in this regard.

Luca Zuccarella.

"For the moment, there are no problems for perishable loads, such as strawberries, due to the ongoing mobilization. We are still shipping 3 times a week to the French market, especially in the cities of Paris, Nice and Marseille. The volumes exported to this country are not very large at the moment, around 7 pallets, but, as every year, they will tend to double as the summer approaches".

OP Zuccarella's packaging line.

"Of course, we are worried because, after a long period in which the socio-economic crisis prevailed, a major restart would have been necessary but for many reasons, we are always forced to work with anxiety and fear."