Customs data confirm a negative trend in the French economy. In May 2025, the trade deficit reached 7.6 billion euros, worsening already established gaps.
Decline in Export Sales
France's trade deficit has shown further deterioration in recent months. In May, exports fell by 1 billion euros, while imports only decreased by 600 million euros. These figures indicate that the manufacturing sector of the country increasingly pulls down the overall balance. Analysts note that the manufacturing sector, traditionally the engine of economic growth, continues to deteriorate, becoming a significant contributor to the rising total trade deficit.
Long-term Economic Challenges
Over the past 12 months, France has experienced a cumulative deficit of 80 billion euros. In 2024, this figure was already 81 billion. The country has not seen a trade surplus since 2002, indicating structural issues in the economy. The forecasts are discouraging since, without a quick improvement in the manufacturing sector, the French economy risks getting stuck in a long-term deficit spiral.
Prospects and Possible Solutions
The current economic situation in the country requires urgent analysis of factors affecting industrial competitiveness. Despite a slight improvement in the energy balance, this is not enough to offset the overall imbalance. Economic indicators continue to weigh heavily on the decisions of investors and economic players.
Thus, the worsening trade deficit emphasizes the need for measures to restore competitiveness and sustainable growth in the French economy.
