Market and climate: support for farmers and their risks

THE ISSUE 

The agricultural world is faced with a growing number of risks, including price volatility and recurring climate-related losses. Faithful to its long-standing business, Crédit Agricole S.A. places its expertise at the service of sustainable agriculture and the adaptation of its models. Because prevention is still the best way of reducing risks and supporting farmers. 

OUR RESPONSE

Pacifica, the property and casualty subsidiary of Crédit Agricole Assurances, has rounded out its offer with a grassland insurance policy of potential interest to the 100,000 forage-producing farmers in France. The offer was launched in June 2015 following a three-year pilot programme and is the result of five years of research. Policy-holding farmers receive compensation for any decrease in forage production, measured precisely by satellite Farmers thus have the capital with which to buy the feed required for their herds without having to file a claim.

In developing countries, the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation is contributing to the rise of index-based harvest insurance. This policy is linked to indices on rain, temperature and yield rather than the actual loss, and helps to protect farmers with holdings of under one or two hectares. Agricultural micro-insurance is contributing to the fight against poverty by fostering initiative and entrepreneurship. Through its not-for-profit status, the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation is charting new territory in the field with a view to developing innovative solutions of use to the poorest populations.