How can we promote economic dynamism in rural areas?

The situations of the rural areas found in mainland France vary significantly, from isolated regions with very low population densities to average-density towns on the outskirts of larger cities. Most, however, are witnessing an increase in their populations. Their economy consists largely of productive, agricultural, craft and industrial activities, although residential activity still predominates, owing, in part, to the contribution made by the incomes of those working in towns and cities and living in rural areas, who come here to retire, to set up a business or to get involved in the tourism industry. Whilst some rural areas, and industrial regions in particular, have greatly suffered as a result of the crisis, others, which are often more residential, have been less affected.