French Business Confidence: July Survey Shows Four-Month High

French business confidence improved to its highest level in four months during July, according to the latest survey from France’s statistics agency INSEE, showing resilience despite renewed Middle East tensions and severe summer heatwaves. The overall confidence index rose to 97, while manufacturing confidence increased to 101, supported by stronger production and healthier order books.

The survey also showed improving sentiment across the services and retail sectors, suggesting that businesses remain optimistic even as higher energy prices and supply chain risks continue to pose challenges. Retailers recorded the strongest improvement among the major sectors.

Economists said the data indicates that France’s private sector remains relatively resilient, although business confidence is still below its long-term average. Investors will continue monitoring upcoming economic indicators for signs that Europe’s second-largest economy is maintaining its recovery.