France Cigarette Prices Hit €13; Vaping Offers Big Savings
The price of tobacco in France has increased once again to start the year, with cigarette packs rising by 50 cents since January 1st. This continues a trend seen since 2021, pushing the average price from €11 to €13 in 2026. The government’s consistent strategy aims to dissuade smokers through higher costs, but for many habituated users, the price hike is a burden rather than a deterrent.
While some smokers admit the cost—around €100 a month for moderate users—might force those with lower incomes to cut back, others remain undeterred. However, a significant number are turning to electronic cigarettes as a cost-saving alternative. The financial gap is substantial: according to one vape retailer, a pack-a-day smoker spends approximately €4,745 annually, compared to just €628 for a vaper. Although some consumers report a smaller but still noticeable difference (e.g., spending €50/month on vaping vs. €60 on cigarettes), the savings are a major draw.
Crucially, the latest finance bill avoided increasing costs for electronic cigarettes, maintaining their economic advantage. Jérôme, a vape shop vendor, notes that the savings are so immense that vaping will remain “much cheaper than a pack of cigarettes for a very long time.” He observes that once people switch to vaping and see the financial benefits, they rarely want to return to smoking. Ultimately, for those seeking the biggest savings, 2026 might be the best year to quit nicotine entirely.
- South Korea Escalates Tobacco Warnings with Blunt, Fatalistic Labels - June 22, 2026
- Magnolia Commissioner Proposes Ordinance to Ban Vape Shops - June 22, 2026
- Belarus Moves to Ban Vape and E-Cigarette Advertising Under New Bill - June 22, 2026









