In Europe, France is the number two country in terms of receiving foreign investment. Beyond the numerous qualities that explain this performance (see “The good reasons to invest in France”), it is even more attractive because of the aid provided by various organizations to investors.

The French Agency for International Investment (AFII) is in charge of promotion, prospecting and welcoming of international investments. To this end, it has a network of correspondents in more than 22 countries. Their role is to provide all potential investors with detailed information regarding the regulations applicable to the planned investment. They also help to identify the financial advantages that exist on the regional and national levels. Lastly, they provide all of the aid necessary to accelerate the procedures and to facilitate contacts with the Government services.

The AFII also makes available to foreign investors its partners in the various regions of France. These partners, who are in charge of the economic development of their areas, supervise the aids for starting operations to promote the emergence of new activities.

Lastly, the Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Industry lists the programmes available to people starting businesses and offers them personalized advice with experts on the local level.