Summary

SAI France conducted an audit of the Territories of Industry program (Territoires d'industrie) launched by the government in 2018* to develop industry in the regions, in particular in small and medium-sized cities and rural areas. The audit period covered the period of 2018-2023, auditors examined the program's impact on industrial cooperation, mobilization of the regions' production capabilities, employment levels and financial situation of local enterprises, and analyzed the role of the state in the development of local industry. SAI gave a mixed assessment of the 5-year implementation of the program: despite the development of cooperation between local enterprises, the financing of the territories was insufficient. The auditors also noted incomplete financial monitoring of the program and lack of visible improvements in the productivity of enterprises. According to the SAI, the available data is insufficient to assess the impact of the program on industrial employment and the financial condition of production. It is recommended that the responsible ministries and the National Agency for the Cohesion of Territories (Agence nationale de la cohésion des territoires) develop a harmonized evaluation system to be applied by local authorities and local enterprises. * In 2023, by government decision, the program was extended until 2027.