French households are tightening their budgets as inflation, high energy prices and anxiety ahead of the April 18/May 2 presidential election weigh on consumer spending. A Cofidis poll found 60% believe inflation is accelerating, 58% are cutting non-essential spending and 54% are paying closer attention to prices. Consumer spending accounts for half of France’s gross domestic product and value-added tax is the government’s largest revenue source, raising fiscal concerns as officials seek parliamentary approval for the 2027 budget. France recorded flat growth in the second quarter after contracting 0.2% in the first, with a 0.3% rise in consumer spending supported by savings. Economists and business leaders warn that weaker purchasing power, oil prices and wage growth are limiting the economy’s prospects.