Cigarettes in France have become extremely expensive, turning a routine habit into a heavy financial strain. What was once affordable now “devour[s] a day’s budget,” with cartons costing over €300. This sharp rise has made smoking harder to sustain for many people.

Prices are largely driven by government policy. While manufacturers suggest pricing, taxes dominate the final cost. Around 75–80% of the price of a pack comes from taxes, pushing it to about €12.50–€13 in 2026. Even cheaper options are disappearing, as rolling tobacco now costs nearly €18, limiting alternatives.

These increases are not temporary. Since 2023, tobacco taxes have been linked to inflation, meaning prices automatically rise each year. Authorities defend this approach by pointing to “75,000 smoking-related deaths every year,” aiming to reduce smoking through financial pressure.

At the same time, restrictions have expanded beyond pricing. Smoking bans now include public spaces like parks, beaches, and school areas. Fines apply not only to smoking but also to littering cigarette butts, reinforcing efforts to reduce visibility and discourage the habit.

However, these strict policies have created challenges. High prices push smokers to buy cheaper cigarettes across borders or turn to illegal markets. This situation highlights a growing tension between public health goals and the realities of addiction, where rising costs often impact the most vulnerable the hardest.