The aid package was negotiated with the European Commission by the French Agriculture minister Stéphane Le Foll (pictured) towards the end of 2013.

The move followed the removal of export subsidies in July 2013, and the French government called on Brussels to release fund to help the sector improve the quality of export products.

The support went to help ailing companies such as Doux and Tilly Sabco.

The final payments covering 2014 were paid out in full to farmers last week

Mr Le Foll said: "Since 2012, I have fought to help the poultry industry in the export market following the removal of export refunds, because I have always believed in its future and its potential.

“I have raised support for the different links in the chain, the hatcheries, breeders, with the CAP support paid today, as well as the companies Doux and Tilly Sabco.

“I am pleased that, thanks to this support and the willingness of operators in the sector, both exports and operators throughout the export sector now have a positive outlook.”