From Wednesday, tobacco prices will see a further significant increase in France. This measure, part of a public health policy, aims to reduce consumption by increasing the cost of cigarettes, hand-rolling tobacco and cigars. Consumers will now have to adapt to widespread increases affecting all major brands.
From January 1, 2025, the price of tobacco will increase depending on the brand, with increases of up to 1 euro per pack. Among the notable examples, the pack of Marlboro will now cost 13 euros compared to 12.50 euros previously, while the Gitanes will reach 14.10 euros, compared to 13.60 euros previously. This increase comes as part of a policy aimed at raising the minimum price to 13 euros for all brands by 2027.
These regular increases are part of a government strategy to combat smoking. By increasing the cost of tobacco products, the authorities hope to deter consumption, particularly among young people. This pricing policy is part of a broader plan to reduce the effects of smoking on public health, the costs of which remain high for the health system.
The tobacco brands concerned and the new prices
The increases vary depending on the brand, but they affect all manufacturers. Here are some examples, relayed by our colleagues from 20 Minutesnew prices for a pack of 20 cigarettes:
- Lucky Strike: 12.50 euros (instead of 12 euros).
- Dunhill: 13.20 euros (instead of 12.70 euros).
- Camel: 12.50 euros (instead of 12 euros).
- Winston: 12.50 euros (instead of 12 euros).
- Marlboro: 13 euros (instead of 12.50 euros).
- Chesterfield: 12.50 euros (instead of 12 euros).
- Philip Morris: 12.50 euros (instead of 12 euros).
- Gauloises: 12.30 euros (instead of 12 euros).
- Gitanes: 14.10 euros (instead of 13.60 euros).
- The King 100's: 11.20 euros (instead of 10.90 euros).
- Fortuna: 11.70 euros (instead of 11.40 euros).
- Davidoff: 12.50 euros (instead of 12.20 euros).
These increases also apply to other formats and products, such as rolling tobacco and cigars, continuing a strategy aimed at dissuading consumption through a gradual increase in prices.
More tobacco price increases to come?
This January 1 increase is just one step in a longer strategy. Until 2027, further increases are planned to gradually align prices with the government objective. This movement follows an economic logic but raises concerns, particularly for smokers who struggle to give up tobacco despite the increasing costs.
While the public health objective is laudable, these increases are sometimes criticized for their social impact, particularly affecting low-income households. Some experts stress that price increases, while effective in reducing consumption, must be accompanied by increased support, such as awareness campaigns and cessation aid.
In summary, the increase in tobacco prices from January 2025 marks a new stage in the fight against smoking in France. However, its long-term effectiveness will depend on the combination of pricing measures and support for smokers in reducing their consumption.
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