22 May 2026

France confirms its position as Europe’s most attractive country for foreign investment for the seventh consecutive year, according to consulting firm EY’s 2026 barometer.

In a complex international environment marked by geopolitical tensions, an economic slowdown, and intensifying global competition, France remains, for the seventh consecutive year, the most attractive country in Europe for foreign investment, according to consulting firm EY’s 2026 barometer. Published on May 21, 2026, this barometer identifies and analyzes foreign investment decisions in Europe and international executives’ perception of France. These executives praise:
  • the size of the market,
  • innovation capacity and the quality of infrastructure,
  • the availability of low-carbon energy,
  • the quality of the workforce.

Although 57% of the executives surveyed say they are considering investing in France in 2026, they also express strong expectations regarding the clarity of public policies, political stability, cost competitiveness, taxation, and administrative simplification.

With 852 projects recorded in 2025, France ranks ahead of the United Kingdom, which recorded 730 projects, and Germany, with 548. Investments made in France generated nearly 28,000 jobs, representing a limited decline of 4%, far below the European average (-25%).

Among these projects, 354 are industrial investments. France therefore remains Europe’s leading destination for foreign manufacturing investment.

France also remains Europe’s leading hub for foreign investment in artificial intelligence, with a 26% increase in projects over one year, while the software and IT services, defense, and low-carbon energy sectors are among the driving forces behind this renewed attractiveness.

The country is also making progress in attracting corporate headquarters, with a 17% increase over one year, allowing it to rank second in Europe in this area.

French attractiveness benefits the entire country rather than being concentrated in just a few regions. While Île-de-France remains the leading French region with 233 projects, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes stands out with a level of job creation close to that of the capital region, while Grand Est and Hauts-de-France continue to confirm their attractiveness.

Click here to read the full Barometer.

Sources : info.gouv.fr – EY
Photo credit: Oscar Brouchot