In 2021, France remains the 5th largest country in the world and the 2nd largest in the European Union according to the IMF.

In the first quarter of 2021, gross domestic product (GDP) increases again: +0.4% after -1.4% in the fourth quarter of 2020. However, the rebound is limited: GDP remains 4.4% below its level in the fourth quarter of 2019.

In the first quarter of 2021, purchasing power (calculated with adjusted gross disposable income per consumption unit) falls by -0.9% compared to the previous quarter.

Île-de-France

The Île-de-France market is open to Brussels-based export starters due to its proximity, the use of French as the business language and membership in the EU, which facilitates many procedures.

However, the market can be problematic for Very Small Enterprises (VSE) given the strong local and international competition and the fairly long decision-making process.

Hauts-de-France

The Hauts-de-France market is positive and open to new exporters.

The north of France is a natural market for new Brussels exporters. It is a very dynamic region which is easy to access (barely 30 minutes by train) and similar to Belgium.

The proximity and cultural similarities mean that Brussels residents naturally turn to Hauts-de-France, which has a dynamic and varied economic fabric.