The growth of the F&D products' exports weakened in 2002. Exports recorded an increase in value of 3% in 2002 compared to 2001. This figure, which is less than in 2000 and 2001, confirms nonetheless the growth of exports of EU foodstuffs to third countries following the crises in 1999 and 1998. In a period of downturn in Europe, this sector showed a strong resilience.