In Loire-Atlantique and more broadly in Pays de la Loire, business with the United States is a reality shared by many companies. Even if we import more than we export across the Atlantic, the department has heavy goods vehicles. Like Chantiers de l'Atlantique and Airbus, which since 2018 have benefited from a direct maritime line between Montoir-de-Bretagne and its factory in Alabama.
But alongside these major players, other companies (500 in the department) trade with the USA. “Manitou, which has a presence of more than fifty years in the United States, Armor group, Bénéteau, which generates 30% of its sales in the United States…”, lists, among others, Jean-François Reynouard, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of Pays de la Loire, which supports SMEs developing internationally. “Exports are often analyzed through the prism of large players who weigh heavily; it is important to point out that nearly 67% of exporters had fewer than twenty employees. »
According to the latest customs figures (the last four quarters), the United States even stands out as the leading destination for exports from Pays de la Loire (17%), for a total amount of 4.8 billion euros. Including 4.2 billion for Loire-Atlantique alone.
“Relations between the United States and the region are strong and dynamic”
But the United States is also investing in the Region. They are in the lead behind Germany. According to the CCI, there are 67 American groups in Loire-Atlantique, 93 establishments, or nearly 5,000 employees. Among the best known, we can cite General Electric (not in the best shape since the announcement of the elimination of 360 positions), Medline in Châteaubriant, AIAC which took over Lacroix signaling, the can manufacturer Eviosys and Mondelez international with its LU biscuit factory. “Relations between the United States and the region are strong and vibrant, comments Jean François Reynoaurd. But the next American election suggests a strengthening of protectionism, even if it is already present with theAmerica first. »
If new customs restrictions arise, they will probably have little impact on big players like Airbus, but could cause agro-food companies or winegrowers who export to falter.
