France's public spending reached 57.2% of GDP in 2025, well above the euro-area average according to the OECD, with pension spending at around 14.1% of GDP as retirees grow in number relative to workers. A government report published in October found pensions take 32% of the education ministry's budget (€28.5 billion) and about 30% of the interior ministry's, averaging 13% across ministries, which leaves less room for schools and public services. According to Insee, the 2025 public deficit was 5.1% of GDP and public debt 115.6% of GDP, and the proposed 2027 budget seeks to rein in the deficit through spending restraint and changes affecting pensions and public-sector pay. Past reform attempts have provoked backlash, notably the 2023 move to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, which triggered mass protests and has since been suspended.
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| Market | Currencies |
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| Close on 10/16/2026 | 1.12393 |
| Change that session | +0.16% |
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