Towards a 20-euro package, then 26 euros by 2040
Based on an annual increase of around 5%, France could aim for an average price of €20 per pack within ten years. According to these projections, the price could reach around 26 euros by 2040, if the current trajectory is maintained. This would place France among the European countries where tobacco is taxed the most.
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In which European countries does a pack of cigarettes cost the least?
Andorra, Spain, Luxembourg, Italy…
Whether they are member nations of the European Union or not, some border countries offer attractive pricing compared to France. This is the case in Andorra, Spain, Luxembourg and Italy, where the price of a pack of cigarettes is between four and six euros.
Belgium, Germany, Switzerland…
As for Belgium, Germany and Switzerland, these countries still have a cost of less than ten euros. Hence the evolution of the legislation in force, such as the financing law and the strengthening of the resources allocated to French customs to fight against cigarette trafficking.
Marked differences at the European level
The price differences therefore remain very large. In some Central and Eastern European countries, such as Bulgaria, Romania or Poland, the price of a packet can still be between three and five euros, due to lower taxation on tobacco. Conversely, France is now one of the countries where tobacco is the most expensive in Europe.
A major challenge for French public policies
These price differences explain the development of cross-border purchases and cigarette trafficking. Faced with this situation, the French public authorities have strengthened the legislative framework, in particular through financing laws, and increased the resources allocated to customs to fight against smuggling and illegal circuits.
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Why is the price of cigarette packs rising?
Rising prices to fight smoking
The gradual rise in prices is thus one of the main prevention levers mobilised by the public authorities. In France, it is estimated that more than 75,000 deaths annually are due to smoking. Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable mortality, cancer mortality and mortality before the age of 65.
Smoke-free measures
In this context, in 2014 the State launched a tobacco control policy, the National Tobacco Reduction Programme (PNRT). It has enabled the implementation of actions and investments, starting with the rise in prices. Among the measures taken, we can focus on:
plain cigarette packaging, regardless of brand;
the organization of prevention and awareness campaigns;
support for professionals with a view to developing their activity…
An environmental impact of tobacco
Cigarette butts represent 35% of the waste collected in public spaces. They contain toxic chemicals that pollute soil and water. Manufacturers are subject to taxes to contribute to the collection and processing of cigarette butts.
The case of electronic cigarettes
The French authorities are paying particular attention to the regulation of electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes or vapes, because of their potential dual role: a tool to help people quit smoking, but also an attractive product for young people.
Bans on “puffs”, disposable electronic cigarettes
Since February 26, 2025, the sale and distribution of disposable electronic cigarettes (“puffs”) have been officially banned in France. This measure aims to limit access to these devices, which are considered particularly attractive to young people because of their flavours, price and disposable nature.
Taxation and tax framework
Unlike traditional tobacco, vaping products (e-liquids and equipment) are not yet subject to a specific tax equivalent to that of combustible cigarettes. The 20% VAT already applies to vaping, but it is not assimilated to an “anti-smoking tax” strictly speaking.
A tax rejected by the Senate
In the finance bill for 2026, the government had considered an additional tax on e-liquids (in the range of 0.03 to 0.05 euros per milliliter depending on the nicotine level), but this measure was rejected by the Senate at the end of 2025, which prevents immediate application.
Restrictions under discussion
As part of the same budget bill, broader measures were proposed, such as:
the assimilation of vaping to tobacco products in tax legislation;
banning the online sale of vaping products;
the obligation for specialized shops to obtain administrative approvals similar to those of tobacconists.
However, the article that provided for these restrictions, known as “Article 23”, was removed at first reading in the National Assembly at the end of November 2025, which tempers the strictest regulation of vaping for the time being.
European framework
At the European Union level, e-cigarettes remain subject to the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), which sets common rules for the manufacture, presentation and sale of tobacco products and related products, including certain aspects of vaping.
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When was the ban on smoking in public places implemented?
A ban that dates back to 2007
The ban onsmoking in public places has been in effect since 1 February 2007. It concerns all covered or closed places for collective use. For example, healthcare facilities, schools, workplaces, such as public administration or private sector companies. This also applies to public transport.
A space dedicated to smokers possible
In certain circumstances, however, the manager or manager may decide to set up a space reserved for smokers. This requires the installation of dedicated signage, in particular with the help of posters, panels or even flyers.
New bans since July 1, 2025
Since July 1, 2025, France has strengthened its anti-smoking policy by expanding the ban on smoking in outdoor public places frequented by children. The new places concerned are:
beaches;
public parks and gardens;
the surroundings of schools, colleges and high schools;
bus shelters;
sports facilities.
This measure is part of a strategy to create a “tobacco-free generation” by 2032.
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What are the penalties for non-compliance with the smoking ban?
Fine for smoker
Smokers who do not comply with the law on the prohibition of smoking in a public place risk a fixed fine of 68 euros, which can go up to 450 euros. It is also forbidden to smoke in a car in the presence of a minor. The offender risks a fine of up to 750 euros.
Fine for the vaper
The ban on vaping also applies in certain places, such as schools, public transport and closed collective work spaces. The fixed fine of 35 euros (reduced to 22 euros in the event of prompt payment).
Fine for the establishment
As for the school manager who encourages this type of behavior, he risks a fourth-class fine, i.e. 135 euros. It can rise to €750 if:
no signage indicates the prohibition of smoking or vaping;
a non-compliant reserved space is available for smokers;
The person in charge of the premises encourages non-compliance with the smoking ban.
Fine for throwing cigarette butts on the ground
Since 2020, the law provides for a 4th class fine (135 euros) for throwing cigarette butts on the ground outside a bin or collection point. In addition, from July 1, 2025, smoking will be prohibited in parks, public gardens, etc. Failure to comply with this prohibition may also result in a fine.
