To assess the impact of HBV infection, we estimated, using mandatory reporting data from 2004 to 2007, the total number of annual new infections—including asymptomatic cases—as well as the number of cases that progressed to chronic infection. Methods - The total number of new symptomatic infections occurring each year was estimated by applying the completeness rate identified in a 2005 survey to the reporting data; we then used models developed in the United Kingdom to estimate the proportion of asymptomatic infections, as well as the number of cases progressing to chronicity. Results - A total of 633 cases of acute symptomatic hepatitis B were reported between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2007, representing an average of 158 reported symptomatic cases per year. After accounting for the completeness of reporting, the total number of symptomatic and asymptomatic HBV infections was estimated at 2,578 infections per year [95% CI: 2,320–2,845], corresponding to an estimated incidence of 4.1 cases per 100,000 inhabitants [95% CI: 3.7–4.5]. The number of cases progressing to chronic infection was estimated at 209 per year [95% CI: 188–231]. Conclusion - Although France is among the countries with low prevalence and incidence of HBV infection, these results show that this infection remains a public health problem there, particularly since the recommendations of the vaccination schedule are poorly implemented, leading to insufficient vaccination coverage. (R.A.)