France, long regarded as a strong player in the maritime sector, is making active effort to stake its claim in the global shipping industry, especially now that the United States of America is well underway to cause a full-blown global trade way. The country has a maritime domain spanning more than 10 million km² (making it the second-largest exclusive economic zone in the world), but even so its fleet is not quite up there with the biggest shipping leaders; only 900 vessels. This has France barely enter the the top 30 in terms of fleet tonnage. These vessels cover all aspects of maritime transport, from container shipping to specialized services. France is also home to some of the world’s most advanced shipyards, particularly known for producing high-complexity, high-value vessels such as cruise ships, positioning it second in Europe for shipbuilding activity. However, like the rest of the world, France has not been immune to the global slowdown in trade. The recent drop in freight rates and weakening demand for manufactured goods has put pressure on container shipping companies. The numbers are startling when you compare the first-quarter net income for CMA CGM, considered to be one of the key players in France’s shipping sector. It dropped from $7.2 billion in 2023 all the way down to $2 billion in 2024. Revenues declined by 30% to €12.7 billion, signaling a tough market environment for global shippers. Yet amid the downturn, France’s shipping industry is evolving. Key areas of growth include the development and deployment of green and digital technologies. Initiatives such as the Energy Observer, an experimental vessel powered by hydrogen and renewable energy, demonstrate the country’s leadership in marine innovation. France has also earmarked substantial sums for the pursuit of smart shipping and ecologically friendly technologies. Projects include hydrogen and electric docking stations, smart port systems, AI-powered navigation tools, and increased focus on marine renewable energy sources.