French Tech Firms: Immigration Curbs Threaten AI Ambitions

Senior executives at leading French technology firms have warned that far-right National Rally immigration restrictions could hurt the country’s desire to become Europe’s AI hub

President Emmanuel Macron called for emergency elections for the lower house of parliament after his Renaissance party suffered significant losses in the European Parliament election over the weekend. The first round is scheduled for June 30 and the run-off is scheduled for July 7.

Macron has prioritized the support of domestic technology companies by simplifying the process of hiring foreign employees, advocating against European Union regulations that he views as overly restrictive, and securing investment from Microsoft and Amazon.

However, Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally (RN), expected to secure the most seats in the election, has committed to reducing the number of migrant laborers permitted to enter France and imposing more stringent regulations on foreign investment.

Tech executives contend that this could potentially undermine the nation’s AI objectives.

Julien Launay, CEO of AI startup Adaptive ML, agreed with the party’s anti-migration stance.

Skilled immigration to France was a significant factor in talent development at the two businesses where I previously worked.

Particularly those students who visited the region to pursue their education, completed internships with various organizations, and ultimately remained. I am impressed by the exceptional pipeline of youthful talent.

Camille Lemardeley, the general director of Superprof, a Paris-based education startup, stated to Reuters that the RN’s policies could create a less hospitable environment for international professionals, which could impact the broader business climate.

“The RN’s policy platform includes proposals that emphasize stricter immigration controls and a focus on national preference in employment,” according to him.

“This could ripple effect on innovation and competitiveness, not just for Superprof, but for the entire French tech ecosystem.”
In recent weeks, France has endeavored to establish itself as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI).

The annual VivaTech conference in Paris was attended by business and political leaders from around the globe.

However, Hugo Weber, the director of public affairs at Paris-based e-commerce firm Mirakl, has characterized the party’s policies as “fundamentally detrimental” to France’s tech ecosystem. He believes the RN’s proposed restrictions on hiring foreign workers could undermine this.

Weber reported that Mirakl, which provides AI-powered solutions for online retailers, depends on recruiting talent from abroad and investment from global venture capital funds, as well as other services.

“I am concerned about the ability of French startups to continue attracting funding, and remaining a destination for tech talent, particularly in AI,” said the representative.