France: Agricultural fuel prices drop and sheep market rises

Agricultural fuel prices in France are set to decrease, with non-road diesel (GNR) prices dropping by approximately 20 cents per liter starting November 1, 2026. This reduction follows a decree authorizing the release of strategic diesel reserves, with Total Énergies committing to the lower rate through January 31, 2027. Additionally, a 15 cent per liter reimbursement under an exceptional aid scheme for agricultural GNR has been extended until December.

In the livestock sector, September 2026 data from Agreste shows a 3.7% annual increase in sheep slaughtering, driven largely by a 15.3% rise in adult sheep slaughter. The average price for lamb reached 9.08 euros per kilo of carcass, a 4.6% increase compared to September 2025. Live sheep exports saw a significant surge of 83.8% in August, fueled by new demand from Lebanon.

In the Limousin region, the MSA (Mutualité Sociale Agricole) is increasing support for farmers facing financial difficulties caused by extreme weather and geopolitical instability. Available assistance includes individualized payment schedules, penalty waivers, and social service support to address professional exhaustion and isolation.