The Bank of France published survey findings showing that generative artificial intelligence had spread to 67% of French firms with at least 20 employees by early 2026, although use was mainly experimental or limited and concentrated in support functions. Only 31% of generative AI users reported productivity gains over the previous three years, indicating that broad adoption has yet to translate into substantial economic effects. Non-generative AI was less widespread, with about one-third of firms using it. Adoption and gains were strongest among larger firms and knowledge-intensive sectors that had embedded specialized AI tools in production, research and innovation. Firms not using AI most often cited a lack of identifiable use cases, while users faced skills shortages, regulatory constraints and concerns about output reliability. Over the next three years, 60% of firms using or planning to use AI expect productivity gains, but they also anticipate continued investment, a moderately negative employment effect and no significant decline in selling prices.
2026-09-03Bank of France
Bank of France finds generative AI use at 67% of French firms with at least 20 employees but limited productivity gains
The Bank of France found that 67% of French firms with at least 20 employees used generative AI in early 2026, mainly experimentally or in support functions. Productivity gains remain limited, though 60% of firms using or planning to use AI expect gains over the next three years. Firms also anticipate continued investment, modest employment reductions and no significant fall in selling prices.