Hiring in France increased slightly in the first quarter of 2026, according to data published by the Directorate for Research, Studies and Statistics (Dares). Between January and March, 6,58 million employment contracts were signed in the private sector, excluding agriculture, temporary work, and private employers, representing a 0,9% increase compared to the previous quarter.
This growth is primarily driven by fixed-term contracts (CDD). Their number increased by 1,1% to reach 5,61 million, while permanent contracts (CDI) continued their decline. They decreased by 0,7% over the quarter, to 964,300 contracts, following an already significant drop of 2,2% at the end of 2025.
Permanent contracts continue to decline
At the same time, contract terminations also increased. A total of 6,57 million contracts ended in the first quarter, representing a 0,8% rise. Terminations of permanent contracts increased by 0,4%, while the end of fixed-term contracts rose by 0,8%, reflecting a still very dynamic labor market characterized by high employee turnover.
The Dares report highlights that staff turnover is down sharply in the information and communication sector and, to a lesser extent, in construction. Conversely, the non-market services sector is experiencing strong growth in recruitment.
According to the barometer published this week by HelloWork, the number of job offers posted in the first half of 2026 fell by 9% compared to the second half of 2025. Permanent contract offers dropped by 13%, while positions for industrial technicians and engineers saw a decrease of 17%. At the same time, competition among candidates is intensifying, with an 18% increase in the number of applications per job offer year-on-year.
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