The national accounts in 2016 GDP is up 1.2%, household purchasing power picks up pace

In 2016, activity in France continues to expand: Gross domestic product (in constant euros) is up 1.2%, compared with +1.1% in 2015 and +0.9% in 2014. Household consumption and investment rise significantly. The import market remains buoyant but exports slow considerably, with the result that the contribution of foreign trade to growth falls. The purchasing power of household gross disposable income improves, mainly due to rising wages and cash social benefits. Purchasing power per unit of consumption grows appreciably, following a moderate increase in 2015. The household savings rate falls, while the profit margin of non-financial corporations stabilises after rebounding strongly in 2015.