The Réunion Regional Assembly has adopted its 2026 budget at €1.2 billion, with more than €541 million allocated to investment. Despite a tense national financial context, the Region posts a 22.7% increase in its investment envelope compared to the previous year.
Three priority axes for the mandate
President Huguette Bello summarised the budget's ambition around three main orientations: human and social development (€280.9 million), economic development (€99.8 million) and ecological transition (€341.8 million). Cross-cutting missions absorb an additional €341.5 million, covering governance, shared services and institutional operations.
«This budget reflects the budgetary orientations and continues the mandate's action plan», said Huguette Bello at the budget presentation.
The Nouvelle Route du Littoral back on track
Among the flagship projects, the resumption of the Nouvelle Route du Littoral (NRL) figures prominently. Previously suspended for financial and governance reasons, this key mobility infrastructure project for the island's northern zone is back on track within the 2026 envelope. New lycée construction and mobility network upgrades are also included.
Regional debt is declining — a positive signal at a time when several mainland French regions are struggling to balance their accounts without raising taxes. Réunion stands out for its gradual deleveraging trajectory.
Why it matters
A budget with rising investment, despite national constraints, sends a clear signal to island businesses. NRL works, new schools and mobility networks represent significant public contracts for Réunion's construction and services sector. In a context of high unemployment (around 20%), every euro of public investment matters — and this budget injects more than €541 million of it.
Source: Imazpress, Zinfos974, Région Réunion, 2026.