The price of cigarettes in France has been rising steadily for many years, largely due to government efforts to reduce tobacco consumption. Manufacturers or importers initially propose retail prices, factoring in production, distribution, margins, and required taxes.

These proposed prices must be approved by the French authorities, especially the Directorate General of Customs and Indirect Taxes. Once approved, the price becomes official and must be applied nationwide, meaning tobacconists cannot change prices or offer discounts.

The final cost of a pack includes three main parts: the manufacturer’s share, the tobacconist’s margin, and state taxes. Manufacturers receive about 15% of the retail price, while tobacconists earn between 8% and 10% for each sale.

Taxes make up the largest portion, accounting for roughly 75% to 80% of the total price. These include excise duty and value-added tax, both regularly adjusted through government financial policies.

Excise duty is based mainly on the quantity of tobacco and uses a mixed formula combining a percentage of the price and a fixed amount. By January 2026, a pack of 20 cigarettes costs around 12.50 to 13 euros, compared to about three euros in the early 2000s, showing a sharp long-term increase.