Yet, the French business had made money over 26 years.

That has given him influence in French business.

French businesses operating in Brunei face increased taxes at home.

The confidence of French businesses, on the other hand, rose this month.

French business pushes ahead, meanwhile, offering employees stakes in their future through share ownership.

"Management clearly lacks the ability to create synergies with their French businesses," he said.

The town is home to both traditionally French small businesses and to artisans.

Many of French businesses and shops completely shut down for 3 to 4 weeks in August every year.

I have some knowledge of this - they are French businesses.

It has also been lifting many price and currency controls that hampered French business.