France business confidence jumps in September despite new Covid surge

French business confidence has continued to recover, with the industrial sector showing a better-than-expected improvement in September, according to a survey released on Thursday.

Official statistics agency INSEE said its business confidence index rose to 92 from August's 90, its highest level since February before a two-month lockdown was enforced.

The industrial sector index leapt to 96 from 92, higher than expected readings of 95 and a far cry from a historic 30-point decline in April due to the coronavirus.

France is facing a surge in new Covid-19 cases and has been forced to increase restrictions on gatherings.