With more than 58,000 cases in 2016 the number of business insolvencies was still about 5% higher than before the start of the credit crisis in 2008.
![France key indicators](https://group.atradius.com/image/2017_we_france_pic1.png)
![France industries performance forecast](https://group.atradius.com/image/2017_we_france_pic2_new.png)
The insolvency environment
Despite decreases in 2016 and 2017, the insolvency level remains high
French business insolvencies decreased by about 8% in 2016, and in 2017 another 5% decline is expected, in line with the on-going (albeit modest) economic rebound. However, with more than 58,000 cases in 2016 the number of business insolvencies was still about 5% higher than in 2008.
![French business insolvencies](https://group.atradius.com/image/2017_we_france_pic3.png)
Economic situation
Growth expected to remain below eurozone average
![France real GDP growth](https://group.atradius.com/image/2017_we_france_pic4.png)
In 2017 and 2018 French economic growth is expected to increase only modestly, by 1.3% and 1.4% respectively; again below the eurozone average. Productivity remains an issue in the French manufacturing sector.
Unemployment, at least, shows a decreasing trend, which should benefit private consumption.
![France fiscal balance](https://group.atradius.com/image/2017_we_france_pic5.png)