Across Europe, governments have steadily raised tobacco prices as part of comprehensive strategies to reduce smoking rates and improve public health.
High taxation on cigarettes aims to deter consumption by making the habit increasingly unaffordable.
Countries such as the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands have introduced similar measures, which have contributed to lower smoking rates and fewer tobacco-related illnesses. However, the success of these efforts often hinges on enforcement, public education, and access to cessation resources.
In France, the latest price hike for cigarettes and rolling tobacco underscores the country’s commitment to reducing tobacco addiction, which remains a leading cause of preventable death.
According to Linternaute, cigarette prices for brands like Fortuna, Gauloises, and Dunhill will rise between 20 and 40 cents per pack. This follows a previous price adjustment at the start of the year.
Types of Tobacco Products Affected
The price adjustment affects several categories of tobacco.
Pre-rolled cigarettes, particularly standard and premium brands, will see incremental increases. Rolling tobacco products, which are popular due to their perceived affordability, are also impacted by the hike.
Smokers who rely on hand-rolled options will now face higher costs, further narrowing the price gap between pre-rolled and loose tobacco.
In contrast, electronic cigarettes and their refills remain unaffected for now. However, discussions are underway about imposing additional taxes on e-cigarette products in the near future. If implemented, these taxes could raise refill prices by an average of €1.50.
The Role of Taxation in Tobacco Control
France’s approach to tobacco control is built on the principle of "price as deterrent." Over 80% of the price of a cigarette pack is made up of taxes designed to discourage consumption.
Out of a typical €13 price, only around €2 is shared between manufacturers and retailers.
These taxes are part of broader anti-smoking measures that have contributed to a decline in smoking rates across Europe.
However, public health experts emphasize the need for complementary strategies, including better access to nicotine replacement therapies, anti-smoking campaigns, and stronger support for individuals seeking to quit.
By steadily increasing prices, French authorities hope to further reduce tobacco use and the estimated 75,000 annual deaths linked to smoking in the country.
The effectiveness of these price hikes will continue to be monitored as part of France’s long-term public health objectives.
This adds on to the ban of flavored cigarettes and certain types of e-cigarettes which the French parliament unanimously voted to ban in 2023.
