Paris – Strong economic ties continue to boost trade between Lombardy and France: With Lombardy’s agri-food interchange with the world amounting to €14.6 billion, almost a fifth – € 2.6 billion – goes to France. Exports grew from € 764 million in 2012 to €792 million in 2013, particularly food products (€661 million), and specifically dairy products (€200 million) and baked goods (€154 million). France exports to Lombardy mainly cheese (€489 million) and agricultural products, animals, and fish (€420 million). Drinks and beverages are dominated by French wines and champagnes (€117 million imported into Lombardy and only €64 million exported to France). But Lombardy wines gain ground, increasing foreign sales by €6.6 million. The 2012-2013 data provided by ISTAT was analyzed by the Research Department of the Chamber of Commerce of Milan. (9Colonne)