France is the sixth largest economy in the world and is a developed country.It is the sixth largest importer and the fifth largest exporter manufactured goods.

France is also the second largest receiver of foreign direct investments as compared to the other countries in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

France is the leader of the G7 countries in terms of productivity.

France is a member of the WTO, United Nations, Secretariat of the Pacific Community and the Indian Ocean Commission. France is a partial member of the NATO and an associate member of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS). The headquarters of UNESCO, OECD, Interpol and the International Bureau of Weights and Measures are housed in France.

Gothic Art as well as Baroque architecture is said to have been born in France. The earlier name for Gothic art was French Art. France is therefore home to many world famous and prestigious Gothic art in basilicas and cathedrals.

In 2004, the GDP per hour worked in France was $47.7, ranking France above the United States ($46.3), Germany ($42.1), the United Kingdom ($39.6) and Japan ($32.5).

"The Phantom of the Opera", written by the French Gaston Leroux during the twentieth century may be one of the most famous pieces of French literature in modern times.

France is home to the international cycling competition Le Tour de France.