Structural insecurity hinders recovery
Compared to other French overseas territories, Mayotte stands out with a significant annual decrease in the number of job seekers in category A (-4%).
This is one of the largest decreases recorded, but this improvement still masks numerous difficulties in the labor market. According to a report published by France Travail, the DARES (Directorate for Research, Studies and Statistics), and the Mayotte prefecture, 20,110 people were registered with France Travail at the end of 2025, excluding those receiving social support or awaiting guidance. Among them, 15,110 had no job (category A) and 3,055 were working reduced hours (categories B and C).
The number of job seekers completely without employment decreased slightly, by 0.5% over the quarter and by 4% over the year. However, if we look at all categories A, B, and C—that is, all those required to actively seek employment—we observe a 1.7% increase over the quarter. This shows that the situation remains precarious.
The figures also vary according to age. Among young people under 25, the number of registered job seekers increased by 1.6% over the quarter. For those aged 25 to 49, the increase was 1.7% over the quarter, but the number declined over the year. For those over 50, the trend is similar: +1.9% over the quarter, but a decrease of 1.5% over the year. These differences show that young people and older workers have more difficulty finding stable employment.
Long-term unemployment also remains a major concern. Nearly 30% of job seekers have been registered for a year or more, a significantly higher proportion. These individuals often face greater difficulties finding employment, especially given that available jobs are frequently temporary or seasonal.
The number of people registering with France Travail indicates a still-unstable job market. New registrations decreased by 3.6% over the quarter, but increased by 36.8% year-on-year. The full employment reform, which came into effect in 2025, has also changed the landscape, particularly with the automatic registration of RSA (income support) recipients and young people in contract-based training programs.
