rki.news | Sources AP
PARIS — France’s public debt has reached a record 119 percent of gross domestic product, adding pressure on the government as it prepares its latest budget amid growing concerns over public finances.
Official figures show France’s debt stood at €3.596 trillion at the end of June, compared with 97.9 percent of GDP in 2019. The government expects the debt ratio to rise to nearly 122 percent next year despite plans for €54 billion in spending cuts.
Debt servicing costs are also increasing, with interest payments expected to exceed €90 billion by 2027. The issue has become a major focus ahead of next year’s presidential election as political parties debate measures to control government borrowing.
France has continued to record annual budget deficits since 1973. The country’s debt ratio remains higher than the eurozone average of 88.9 percent recorded in the first quarter of 2026.
The government faces a difficult parliamentary debate over its proposed budget as it seeks to reduce spending while maintaining public services and addressing economic pressures.
France Debt Reaches Record High as Budget Pressures Grow
