France :: essays research papers fc

Movement A. Economic Description Compared to other countries, France’s economy is the fourth largest in the world. France is a very industrialized nation, yet it has kept some of the cultural characteristics that contribute to its old-world charm. The economy is â€Å"exceptionally diversified† (â€Å"Economic Structure†, 1). It produces everything from aircrafts to pharmaceuticals. 1. Primary Economic Activities   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Agriculture is France’s main primary economic activity. The agriculture and agro-food industries make up about 6% of the gross domestic product which is the total sum of everything in the economy (â€Å"Economic Structure†, 1). However, agriculture is about the only bountiful natural resource in France. While France has limited amounts of coal, uranium, and other materials that could be mined, it is very hard to get to those places because they are so deep in the ground and they are unusable in steel production. France also produces hydroelectric energy but it can not produce enough to meet the entire country’s needs (â€Å"Natural Resources†, 1). 2. Secondary Economic Activities   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  France engages in quite a few secondary economic activities such as manufacturing, machinery and transport equipment production, aircraft production, and pharmaceutical items. This part of the economy makes up about 26% of France’s gross domestic product and 25% of its labor force (â€Å"CIA 2001†, 1). Manufacturing plays the largest role out of all of the secondary economic activities with a contribution of 16% to the gross domestic product. Behind it are the construction and energy generation companies which account for 4% and 3% of the gross domestic product (â€Å"Economic Structure†, 1). Tertiary Economic Activites   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Services are a large part of the composition of France’s gross domestic product. It accounts for 70.6% of the GDP and a whopping 71% of the work force (â€Å"CIA 2001†. 1). Tourism has a lot to do with the very large chunk services take up in France’s gross domestic product. People make their way to France for many different reasons. Some people come for the great food, wines, and pastries. Others come for the beautiful scenery of the French Riviera, Eiffel Tower, and fun festivals such as the gypsy festival which is known for its extravagant singing and dancing. Others come for art and entertainment which they can take in at any one of France’s many museums such as the Louvre. The Cannes Film Festival is another event that makes France an attractive destination for those who love the arts. The festival brings film stars together from all over the world to promote their new summer movies.