France’s overall business climate index rose to 97 in October 2026, up from 96 in September and slightly above expectations, bringing it closer to its long-term average of 100. The improvement was driven chiefly by manufacturing, where the indicator gained four points to reach 105—the highest level among the major sectors—supported by stronger global and foreign order books.
The services climate also improved, edging up to 99 from 98 and narrowing the gap with its long-term average. By contrast, the retail trade climate deteriorated: its indicator fell three points to 93, moving further below its long-term average, largely due to a sharp drop in the general business outlook.
The construction sector weakened as well, with its indicator slipping one point to 95. This decline reflected a worsening assessment of past activity, even though contractors’ expectations for future activity improved. Meanwhile, the employment climate index fell three points to 95.
