French-made period underwear faces significant challenges in a market increasingly dominated by imports. Marion Goilav, founder of Elia Lingerie—a brand committed to local and ethical production—highlights the threats facing French companies amid unequal tax and production conditions.

 

The decision to manufacture in France: a strong but costly commitment

At Elia, manufacturing in France isn’t just about quality. Above all, it’s an ethical choice. ""Producing locally means offering impeccable quality, ensuring full traceability, and above all, supporting employment in France," explains Marion Goilav. However, this responsible model faces a difficult economic reality: production costs in France are much higher than in other countries, where wages and standards are far more flexible.

 

International competition: an unacceptable imbalance

Imported menstrual underwear, particularly from China, Egypt, or Bangladesh, benefits from very favorable tax conditions. "Reduced or even non-existent taxes, combined with very low wages, allow these countries to offer prices that are unbeatable," laments Marion Goilav. While in France, producing a pair of period panties costs between €15 and €20, in these low-cost countries, the production cost is significantly lower, which undermines the competitiveness of local businesses.  

This imbalance is exacerbated by trade agreements that benefit these countries—such as tariff exemptions—while French products face export barriers. As a result, brands like Elia find themselves facing unfair competition, particularly in public tenders, where their products are priced twice as high as imports.

 

Why keep production in France?

Despite these obstacles, Elia remains firmly committed to its French production. ""Beyond competitiveness, manufacturing in France means offering safe, high-quality products free of chemicals hazardous to health, and it also means adhering to strict social standards," insists Marion Goilav. By manufacturing in France, Elia supports transparent and responsible production, ensuring full traceability of its raw materials.

 

Toward a Necessary Reindustrialization

Marion Goilav calls for the reindustrialization of the French textile sector and advocates for concrete solutions:

• A carbon border taxto level the playing field between domestic and foreign production costs
• Strengthening customs controlsto ensure fair competition
• Tax incentives forcompanies that choose to manufacture in France

She also emphasizes the importance ofraising consumer awarenessabout the issues surrounding local production, highlighting the transparency, ethical standards, and quality of French products.

 

Are consumers willing to support local businesses?

Marion Goilav remains optimistic despite competition from industry giants like Shein. ""Consumers are increasingly aware of ethical and environmental issues," she says. But, "as long as the prices of imported products remain this low, ‘Made in France’ will struggle to gain widespread traction."

 

 www.elia-lingerie.com

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