Bad news for smokers: From May 1. 2026, you will no longer be able to buy… see more
The price of cigarettes in France has been increasing steadily for many years, mainly as a result of government policies aimed at reducing tobacco consumption. The retail price of tobacco products is initially proposed by manufacturers or importers, who include production costs, distribution expenses, commercial margins, and mandatory taxes. However, this proposed price must be approved by the French authorities, particularly the Directorate General of Customs and Indirect Taxes, which ensures that it complies with national regulations. Once validated, the price becomes official and must be applied uniformly across the country. This means tobacconists cannot set their own prices, offer discounts, or run promotions on tobacco products. The final price of a pack of cigarettes consists of three main components: the manufacturer’s share, the tobacconist’s margin, and taxes imposed by the state. Manufacturers receive roughly 15% of the retail price, while tobacconists earn between 8% ...