France's gross domestic product (GDP) rose by 0.1 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, recovering modestly from a 0.1 per cent decline in the final quarter of 2024, according to preliminary data from the national statistics office Insee. The rebound was supported by increased inventory levels and stronger production in manufacturing and services. However, final domestic demand stalled, with household consumption flat and fixed capital formation falling for the second consecutive quarter. Foreign trade weighed heavily on growth, subtracting 0.4 percentage points from GDP as exports dropped 0.7 per cent, particularly in chemicals, autos, and electricity, while imports climbed 0.4 per cent. Production in manufacturing rose 0.4 per cent, driven by gains in beverage and transport equipment industries. Business and household services also improved, while construction activity continued to contract. Consumption of goods weakened, notably in transport equipment and tobacco, but services spending rebounded, led by stronger demand in transport and household-related sectors. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
