Wild horses, pink flamingos, salt, rice.. all part of what makes this part of the Rhone delta attractive to visitors and residents alike. But should the rice production depend on EU subsidies? The latest CAP (PAC in French) has meant a reduction in the "envelope" of agricultural subsidies being paid out and the French government has cut the subsidy from 800 euros per hectare to 560 euros, about 30% less. Naturally the producers are unhappy and consider that the whole industry is under threat. Their main cost is in diverting the fresh waters of the Rhone onto the salty flatlands of the delta. They argue that Camargue rice is essential to the area as a part of its cultural heritage and that they are unable to compete with cheaper Asian imports. As someone who uses Italian carnaroli rice for risotto and basmati for curries etc perhaps the growers ought to be looking at adding value by marketing their rice in much the same way: what are its advantages?; in what dishes is Camargue best? (rice pudding perhaps). Subsidies are going to decline so they must adapt or see the Camargue covered in tomatoes or rape etc. - or do you think the subsidies should increase?
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