This time, it's the construction industry that's getting the aid. The government has announced the expansion of the "flash fuel loan" to the construction sector, a breath of fresh air promised "in the coming days" according to Economy Minister Roland Lescure, as petroleum-based materials become increasingly expensive due to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.
Insulation, plastics, solvents, paints, adhesives… on construction sites, the bill quickly adds up and it is often the smallest companies that bear the brunt of the shock, caught between quotes signed yesterday and invoices received today.
Bpifrance on the front line, cash flow under pressure
Bpifrance will act as the lending institution for these loans, ranging from €5,000 to €50,000, announced at 3,8% and without collateral, intended for very small businesses, SMEs, and craftspeople. Until now, the scheme primarily targeted farmers, fishermen, road haulers, and individual taxi drivers, demonstrating that the government is proceeding in concentric circles, focusing on the sectors most exposed to price increases.
The ministry reports that 7,000 applications have already been submitted and €3,3 million disbursed, a start that gives an idea of the demand… and the strain on public finances. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is expected to announce new measures for June this week, a sign that the surge in fuel prices is becoming entrenched and that the government, willingly or not, is preparing to weather the storm.
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