France's consumer spending unexpectedly declined in June

National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Insee) said, in June 2019, household consumption expenditure on goods fell slightly in volume (–0.1% after +0.3%). Economists had expected a 0.2% increase

In June, food consumption fell sharply (–1.1% after +0.2%). This decrease concerned both the consumption of agricultural goods (fresh fruits and vegetables) and the purchases of processed agri-food products. Over the whole quarter, food consumption fell again (–0.2% after –1.1%).

Manufactured good consumption increased again (+0.7% after +0.5%), supported in particular by durable good purchases. Over the whole quarter, however, purchases of manufactured goods fell (–0.3% after +0.7%).

Consumption of durable manufactured goods rose again (+0.8% after +0.4%), mainly due to the dynamism of transport equipment sales (+2.5%), despite the decline in housing equipment consumption (–1.6%). Over the whole quarter, however, durable good purchases fell sharply (–0.6% after +0.7%).

In June, energy consumption increased slightly (+0.2% after +0.0%). The increase in fuel expenditure (+2.9%) was partially offset by the decrease in gas and electricity consumption (–2.1%). Over the whole quarter, energy expenses increased (+0.8% after +0.9%).