Private sector employment drops in France

The Insee reported that private sector employment in France declined by nearly 26,000 jobs between the beginning of July and the end of September 2026, marking a 0.1% decrease in the third quarter.

Annual decline continues

Over twelve months, the decline reached -0.3%, or 69,800 fewer jobs, representing the seventh consecutive quarterly decline on an annual basis.

Economic stagnation and labor market issues

This follows the announcement of a 0.1% contraction of GDP in the third quarter, indicating a stagnating economy and a labor market in decline within companies. Young people in apprenticeships are particularly affected, with alternating contracts, mainly apprenticeships, largely contributing to the development.

Employment remains stable in first quarter

In the first quarter of 2026, total employment (waged and non-waged) was almost stable for the quarter and on an annual basis, with an increase of 16,000 jobs for the quarter and 32,400 jobs annually, according to the Dares.