France lowers 2025 GDP growth forecast to 0.7% – Banque de France

Paris, March 13 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – France’s Banque de France (BdF) has revised its 2025 GDP growth forecast downward to 0.7%, citing a slower-than-expected economic recovery following a mild downturn at the end of 2024.

The central bank had previously projected 1.1% GDP growth for 2025 in its December forecast but now anticipates a moderate economic performance in the first half of the year, followed by stronger momentum in the latter half.

"Over 2025 as a whole, activity is expected to slow down but growth should remain positive, at an annual average rate of 0.7% (after 1.1% in 2024)," the Banque de France said in a statement.

The revised forecast comes amid lingering economic challenges in the eurozone, with sluggish consumer demand, global trade uncertainties, and high interest rates weighing on recovery prospects.