Cigarette prices in France have been rising for years due to policies aimed at reducing smoking. The system is tightly controlled, meaning prices are not random or set by individual sellers.

Retail prices are first proposed by manufacturers or importers, who include costs like production, distribution, and taxes. However, these prices must be approved by authorities, ensuring they follow national rules. Once approved, they must be applied everywhere, so “tobacconists cannot set their own prices, offer discounts, or run promotions.”

The cost of a pack is divided into three parts: the manufacturer’s share, the seller’s margin, and taxes. Manufacturers receive about 15%, while sellers earn around 8% to 10%. The largest portion comes from taxes, which make up “about 75% to 80% of the price of cigarettes.”

These taxes include excise duty and VAT. Excise duty is based mainly on the quantity of tobacco rather than its sale price and uses a mixed formula. If the calculated tax is too low, a minimum tax is applied. VAT is also included in the final retail price.

By early 2026, the average price of a pack of 20 cigarettes reached around 12.50 to 13 euros, with some brands costing even more. This is a major increase compared to the early 2000s, when prices were around three euros.

Overall, the steady rise in prices reflects a long-term strategy to discourage smoking by making tobacco less affordable.