Sophie Binet, general secretary of the French labor union CGT, has praised Spain's recent economic performance and suggested that France could learn from its approach. According to the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Insee), France's GDP is expected to grow by only 0.4% in 2026, down from the previously predicted 0.7%. This would mark the lowest growth rate in France since 2012, excluding the effects of the pandemic. Binet, who recently traveled to Spain with the French labor minister to study how to adapt work to high temperatures, noted that Spain has experienced stronger economic growth, partly due to significant increases in its minimum wage. Spain's minimum wage has risen by 60% over five years, increasing from 736 euros gross per month in 2018 to 1,221 euros in 2026. This represents a 66% increase over eight years, though the rise has been about 28% in the last five years. In comparison, France's minimum wage has increased by about 22% since 2018 and remains about 28% higher in nominal value than Spain's. Insee reports that real wages in France are expected to stagnate and remain below their 2021 level, leading to a slight decrease in household purchasing power this year, mainly due to inflation and a decline in employment. Binet emphasized the need to raise wages in France to reinvigorate the economy, noting that consumption is declining and investments by local authorities are also decreasing. She advocated for a "demand policy," which focuses on stimulating consumer demand, rather than an "offer policy," which emphasizes increasing the supply of goods and services. Regarding the ability of employers to finance wage increases, Binet distinguished between small and large businesses. She pointed out that large companies have high profit margins—nearly 32%, a historically high figure—but these firms also depend on consumer demand to fill their order books. Many are currently struggling due to falling consumption, despite expectations that household consumption will still increase by 0.3% in 2026. With the upcoming budget debate, Binet called for increased investment in public services, especially after the recent heatwave, and urged a reevaluation of the 211 billion euros in aid provided to companies. She specifically mentioned the need to abolish the Dutreil pact and the CICE, which are tax credits and incentives designed to support businesses. Her proposals aim to address economic stagnation and ensure more equitable growth.