France, An Export Powerhouse In Infrastructure – OpEd

According to data from the Fédération nationale des travaux publics (FNTP), France now ranks as the world’s second largest infrastructure exporter, just behind China. This impressive performance is not just a matter of scale but of consistent capability to adapt, innovate, and deliver in diverse political, geographical, and economic environments. Global expansion in the sector has undoubtedly reinforced French influence around the world.

When it comes to French exports, our minds immediately turn to high-end fashion, perfumes, fine wines, tourism or military equipment. But behind these glamorous or strategic sectors lies a quieter, yet equally significant force in the international market: infrastructure. From engineering marvels and mega construction projects to long-term public-private partnerships (PPPs), France has built a reputation as a world-class exporter of infrastructure solutions. The country’s strength lies not only in its industrial champions but also in a robust ecosystem of investors and developers.

A historic legacy

France’s position as a key player in the global infrastructure landscape is not new. The country has a deep-rooted tradition of engineering excellence, dating back to the construction of canals, bridges, and railways that shaped modern Europe. This historical legacy has evolved into an exportable model, with French firms consistently delivering on complex infrastructure projects across the globe. This position is bolstered by the international operations of major French construction firms such as VINCI, Bouygues, Eiffage, and Colas. These companies have executed complex infrastructure projects across the globe, including the Cairo Metro, the Hong Kong International Airport expansion, and the Grand Paris Express.

VINCI Construction, for instance, is a leader in building and civil engineering sectors in France and has a significant international footprint. The company operates in over 100 countries, delivering projects that range from transport infrastructure to urban development. Similarly, Bouygues Construction and Eiffage have undertaken major projects worldwide, contributing to France’s strong export performance in infrastructure

Global reach

What sets French infrastructure firms apart is its ability to integrate a wide range of services — from design and construction to operation and maintenance — into coherent, long-term partnerships. This model has become especially attractive to governments around the world seeking stable and sustainable infrastructure solutions, particularly through public-private partnerships.

If French construction companies are the builders of infrastructure, then firms like Meridiam are its architects in the financial sense. Founded in 2005 by Thierry Déau, Meridiam is a pioneering investment fund specialising in sustainable infrastructure. It develops, finances, and manages long-term public infrastructure projects in transportation, energy, and social services.

With over €20 billion in assets under management and projects across Europe, North America, and Africa, Meridiam exemplifies the French approach to infrastructure export: combining financial rigour with social and environmental responsibility. Whether it’s investing in clean energy plants in Senegal, modernising public transport through sustainable transport solutions in the U.S., Canada, Italy and the U.K., or supporting digital infrastructure in Germany and Eastern Europe, Meridiam shows that France’s reach extends well beyond construction into strategic project development and management.

Indeed, France’s infrastructure investment model benefits from strong public institutions, clear regulatory frameworks, and a long tradition of state-business collaboration. This institutional strength reassures international partners and enables French firms to mobilise capital, manage risk, and deliver value over the long term.

Infrastructure as a tool of influence

Infrastructure is not just about concrete and steel; it is also about influence. Through major projects, France extends its soft power, builds alliances, and enhances its diplomatic visibility. For example, the development of sustainable urban mobility systems or resilient energy grids in Africa and Latin America positions France as a partner of choice in key regions undergoing rapid transformation.

French development finance institutions like the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) often work hand-in-hand with the private sector to deliver these projects, blending economic goals with diplomatic priorities. Infrastructure thus becomes a strategic export, reinforcing France’s international standing not just in business, but in global governance and sustainability.

For example, the Nîmes–Montpellier bypass, developed under a public-private partnership involving French firms OC’Via and Meridiam (who, since 2019, owns 73%, of the project) enhances regional connectivity and exemplifies France’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions

Sustainability: the next frontier

French firms are also investing heavily in green infrastructure, such as low-carbon construction methods, renewable energy systems, and smart mobility solutions. The Grand Paris Express — Europe’s largest urban transport project currently underway — showcases this commitment, with a focus on decarbonisation, smart technologies, and inclusive urban planning. Similar innovations are being exported worldwide, giving France a competitive edge in the emerging green infrastructure market.

Despite these strengths, France’s infrastructure export sector faces challenges, including competition from state-subsidised Chinese firms and geopolitical uncertainties in certain markets. However, the French model’s emphasis on long-term partnerships, environmental responsibility, and social impact provides a competitive edge in a global market increasingly focused on resilience and equity. 

Continued support from the French government, robust export financing mechanisms, and strategic alliances with local stakeholders will be crucial in maintaining and enhancing France’s leadership in infrastructure exports. By leveraging its expertise and commitment to sustainability, France is well-positioned to meet the infrastructure needs of a rapidly changing world.

While fashion and champagne may continue to symbolise French elegance, it is infrastructure — quietly powerful and globally respected — that increasingly defines France’s role as a high-impact exporter. With industrial leaders like Vinci and Bouygues and financial pioneers like Meridiam, France is not just building bridges and highways — it is exporting expertise, values, and influence. In doing so, it strengthens its global standing and paves the way for a more connected, sustainable world.