Particle.news
Download on the App Store
51 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

French Government Outlines €40 Billion Spending Cuts for 2026 Budget

Prime Minister François Bayrou emphasizes deficit reduction without tax hikes, sparking political opposition and debates over austerity measures.

Le premier ministre François Bayrou, aux côtés de ses ministres, lors de la conférence sur la situation des finances publiques, à Paris, le 15 avril.
François Bayrou, lors de la conférence de presse sur les finances publiques, à Paris, le 15 avril.
Image
Image

Overview

  • The French government has announced €40 billion in spending cuts for 2026, aiming to reduce the public deficit from 5.4% of GDP in 2025 to 4.6% in 2026.
  • An additional €3 billion is allocated for defense spending, prioritizing national security and European strategic autonomy.
  • Prime Minister François Bayrou ruled out tax increases, labeling them 'untenable,' and called for structural reforms to address weak production and low employment rates.
  • Opposition parties, including the left and Rassemblement National, have threatened censure, criticizing the austerity measures as unfairly targeting citizens and public services.
  • Key budgetary decisions and orientations for 2026 are set to be presented before July 14, as the government accelerates its timeline for consultations and planning.