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French Growth Forecast Slashed to 0.6% for 2025 as US Tariffs Weigh

The downward revision raises questions over revenue projections, complicating assumptions for the 2026 finance plan.

Overview

  • The Banque de France on June 11 cut its 2025 GDP growth forecast from 0.7% to 0.6%, marking the third downward revision since September.
  • Olivier Garnier attributes the downgrade to US trade tariffs and elevated global economic uncertainty, notably 10% levies on most EU exports and 25% on steel and automobiles.
  • The government’s 2025 budget was based on a 0.9% growth assumption, creating a gap between forecasted revenues and planned spending.
  • Early fiscal data show a €1.4 billion shortfall in VAT receipts and weaker-than-expected income tax growth, heightening risks of a wider budget deficit.
  • Inflation is projected at 1% in 2025 on declining energy prices, with growth seen rebounding to 1% in 2026 and 1.2% in 2027, driven by domestic demand.