Price per pack of cigarettes: tax, margin and increase

In France, cigarette prices are tightly controlled, with no discounts or promotions allowed. Most of what smokers pay—around 75–80%—is tax, while only a small share goes to manufacturers and retailers.

As of January 2026, prices have risen again, with most packs now costing around €12.50 to €13. Cartons can reach up to €390, and even rolling tobacco has become significantly more expensive.

The goal is clear: reduce smoking by making it less affordable. Tobacco still causes tens of thousands of deaths each year, and taxes are expected to keep rising.

However, higher prices have also led many to buy cigarettes from neighboring countries, where they are much cheaper.

At the same time, smoking bans have expanded across public spaces.

What was once a common habit is becoming more restricted—and far more costly.