FX.co ★ France Factory Activity Remains in Contraction

The S&P Global France Manufacturing PMI was revised slightly higher to 49.5 in October 2026 from a preliminary estimate of 49.3, but remained below September’s reading of 50.6. The latest figure signaled a renewed contraction in the manufacturing sector after two consecutive months of expansion, and represented the sharpest downturn since July of the previous year.

New orders declined at their fastest rate since July 2025, while output fell for the first time in three months, prompting manufacturers to scale back both purchasing activity and employment. At the same time, supply conditions worsened notably, with a marked lengthening of delivery times and intensifying cost pressures.

Higher prices for raw materials, energy, and other inputs drove input cost inflation to a four-month peak. In response, firms raised their selling prices at the quickest pace since May.