Amanda Marr Chung

ABSTRACT

Manufacturing stands as the cornerstone of innovation (constituting 90 percent of R&D) and competitiveness (comprising 80% of exports) in France, serving as a pivotal driver for the nation's economic growth. However, over the past two decades, the landscape of commerce has undergone significant transformations within this economic framework. Since 1978, the manufacturing sector has witnessed a decline, resulting in the loss of 1.5 million jobs. The rise of the technology economy and the emergence of new global competitors, particularly the BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India, and China), have reshaped market dynamics, intensifying the race for innovation. Moreover, the industry faces formidable competition in both labor-intensive and technology-driven domains. In the current economic climate, France's primary objective is to navigate through turbulent waters and maintain its competitive stance. In economic terms, "competitiveness" entails not only sustaining a commercial foothold but also possessing the capability to harness crucial technological and commercial resources