French manufacturing output grows at its fastest pace in nearly four years

French Manufacturing Sees Strongest Growth in Nearly Four Years

At the start of 2026, France's manufacturing industry experienced its fastest rise in output since early 2022, according to the latest PMI® survey. This marks the first time since May of the previous year that production levels have increased. Factories also boosted their purchasing activities, expanded pre-production inventories, and brought on more employees.

Business optimism improved as well, with confidence indicators surpassing their long-term average. However, some weakness in demand persisted, as new orders continued to decline, though only slightly. To address this, French manufacturers offered price reductions.