France’s Economy at Risk: May 2025 Trade Deficit Hits €7.6 Billion

The latest figures published by customs confirm a worrying trend for the French economy. In May 2025, the trade deficit reached 7.6 billion euros. Enough to deepen an already well-established gap. We give you all the details in the following paragraphs!

A decline in exports that burdens the French economy

The decline in France ‘s foreign trade has intensified in recent months. Proof: exports fell by 1 billion euros in May, compared to only a 600 million drop for imports.

Result: the trade balance collapses again. The official figures published by customs show a deficit of 7.6 billion euros.

According to analysts, the heart of the problem lies in the manufacturing sector. Historically, it has been the engine of French growth. It indeed shows a continuous deterioration, becoming the main contributor to the worsening of the total trade balance.

Added to this are faltering international trade exchanges. Enough to further highlight the loss of competitiveness of French industry.

A glimmer of hope remains though: the energy balance. It has slightly improved thanks to a drop in imports that was stronger than that of exports in this specific sector. However, this is not enough to offset the overall imbalance.

An economy weakened in the long term

Over the past 12 months, France shows a cumulative deficit of 80 billion euros. In 2024, it was already 81 billion. The country has therefore not seen a trade surplus since 2002. A strong signal on the structural state of its economy!

The outlook is also not encouraging. Without a rapid turnaround in the manufacturing sector, the French economy is indeed at risk of remaining stuck in a deficit spiral. At a time when investment and confidence are crucial, these indicators weigh heavily on the decisions of economic actors and investors.

In any case, the current economic situation in France demands urgent reflection on the levers of industrial competitiveness. The fact is that without sustainable recovery, the French economy could drift even further away from European standards.