VOICED: After 'Made in China', French firms bring production home

A French furniture company initially outsourced production to China but faced high transportation costs and quality issues. After seven years, they decided to bring production back to France, automating part of the process and reducing work hours. This move, though rare, was successful, leading to job creation and economic stability. The French government is considering financial incentives to encourage similar relocations, though some argue for improving the overall business environment instead.

What were the main reasons the French furniture company decided to bring production back from China?

• High transportation costs and quality issues

• Government regulations in China

• Increased demand in China

• Lack of skilled labor in China

What was one of the challenges faced by the company after relocating production back to France?

• High taxes

• Lack of raw materials

• Partial unemployment

• Increased competition

How did the company manage to create new jobs after relocating production?

• By reducing employee salaries

• By starting a new activity of assembling chairs

• By expanding into new markets

• By outsourcing some tasks to other countries

What is the French government considering to encourage companies to bring production back to France?

• Providing free land for factories

• Offering financial incentives

• Reducing corporate taxes

• Increasing import tariffs

What do critics suggest instead of financial incentives to improve the business environment in France?

• Reducing labor laws

• Improving training for the workforce

• Increasing import tariffs

• Providing free housing for employees