The increases announced: up to €13 for a pack of Marlboro
Almost all brands of cigarettes, rolling tobacco and even cigars are seeing their prices increase. Here are the new prices for some popular brands:
Marlboro Red (20 units) €13 + 0,50 €
Camel Filters (20 units) €12.50 + 0,50 €
Winston Classic (20 units) €12.50 + 0,50 €
News Classic Red (20 units) €12.50 + 0,30 €
Lucky Strike Red (20 units) €12.50 + 0,50 €
Gauloises Blondes Rouge (20 units) €12.30 + 0,30 €
These increases also apply to other products such as heating tobacco or rolling tobacco. The increases vary depending on the manufacturers and references.
Why this increase?
The rise in tobacco prices is part of the government public health policyaimed at reducing cigarette consumption by increasing their cost. This strategy is based on several objectives:
Discourage the purchase : By increasing prices, the public authorities hope to reduce the number of smokers, particularly among young people.
Strengthen tax revenues : Tobacco taxes represent an important source of revenue for the State.
Limit health spending : Tobacco remains one of the leading causes of chronic diseases in France, with high costs for the health system.
A significant impact for smokers
The symbolic bar of €12.50 per packet crossed risks worsening financial pressure on regular consumers. For example:
A smoker consuming one pack per day will spend approximately €375 per month at this price. Premium brands like Marlboro now reach 13 €a threshold which could accentuate inequalities of access or encourage some to turn to the black market.
Alternatives and issues for consumers
With this increase, many smokers may consider:
Reduce their consumption or attempt weaning, helped by nicotine substitutes or dedicated programs.
Change product for less expensive options, such as hand-rolling tobacco, although it too is seeing its prices increase.
Turn to illegal alternatives like the black market, a phenomenon to watch closely.
Quitting smoking remains the best option, both for money and especially for health.
To find all of the new prices (cigarettes, rolling tobacco, heating tobacco, cigars), consult the table available on the French customs website.
