Overview

• Bernard Arnault appeared before the Senate commission on May 21, 2025, to address scrutiny over LVMH’s public subsidies and tax contributions.
• Arnault rejected accusations of tax optimization, highlighting LVMH’s €6 billion in global corporate taxes paid in 2023, including €64.5 million in French tax credits and €193 million in social contribution reductions.
• The LVMH chairman defended the company’s planned 1,200 job cuts in its Champagne and Cognac divisions, disputing claims they contradict its receipt of public aid.
• Arnault argued that duty-free sales mechanisms are essential for France’s luxury market competitiveness and not a form of fiscal aid.
• Tensions flared as Arnault criticized media outlets, calling Le Monde “rather LFI,” and sparred with Senator Fabien Gay over press independence and LVMH’s media ownership.