As French production continues to grow across all major genres, the 30th edition of the Unifrance Rendez-Vous market opens for the first time in Le Havre, welcoming international buyers from all over the world.

Last year, some 200 international buyers from 40 countries and 58 French sales companies attended the Rendez-Vous. The organizers expect similar numbers for the current edition.

Speaking to Variety about this year's event, Unifrance President Gilles Pélisson and General Manager Daniela Elstner share their views on the latest trends, the important role of Rendez-Vous for the sector, and the growing international reach of French programming, from high-end drama to animation and documentaries.

While international streamers are pulling back from original production, French productions continue to grow in all key areas, Pélisson points out.