Fall of the government: what impact on the French economy?

Reading time: 2 min - video: 3 min

When power falters, trust erodes. Across France, shopkeepers, artisans, and consumers are testifying: the fall of the government is fueling doubts, slowing projects, and fueling expectations for new political momentum.

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The fall of the government in Paris has not only political consequences: it also affects the local economy. In Rouen, a car dealership reports a direct impact on his business: "There's a little more concern from our customers, and then... you can really feel it, it's set in stone. We've seen a loss of around 25% of orders," he explains.

As soon as rumors of a change in government circulate, customers hesitate. "They ask us questions: How will it work? Should we wait before buying our car? Should we wait until next month?"

Accustomed to this type of turbulence, the dealership still wants to remain resilient: "We're getting used to it, actually. It's not the first time, but we'd like it to stop, to have a stable government to plan for the future."

On the streets of Rouen, the political instability is not leaving anyone indifferent. For one passerby interviewed, the situation is stressful: "Of course it's a factor. We're careful when we shop, we wonder what's going to happen." Another Rouen resident adds: "It's true that there are times when we're a little more careful, but we shouldn't overreact."

Jean-Claude Talloir, a shopkeeper, expressed regret that François Bayrou did not "complete his economic policy." According to him, "today, we know that we are going to go through crises, there is no other solution."

In Velette-sur-Mer, 70 km from Rouen, political instability is also being felt on construction sites. Cyril Vauchel, a renovation tradesman, fumes: "People receive assistance for their work. But with every change of government, it's no longer paid. We advance the money, but then the customers can't pay us. This is piling up delays."

However, both he and the owner of the restaurant he is renovating acknowledge a certain relief at the fall of the outgoing government: "Removing two public holidays was too much for our employees. One was fine, but three was a lot," says the craftsman.