France is the second EU country to ban disposable vapes. Photo credit: sarahjohnson1, Pixabay.
French lawmakers have approved a disposable e-cigarette ban, citing their alleged role in encouraging nicotine addiction among teenagers and their negative impact on the environment.
The legislation received final approval in the Senate on February 13, making France the second European Union country, after Belgium, to implement such a restriction.
Health authorities in both France and Belgium have warned that prolonged nicotine consumption poses significant risks to adolescent brain development and may increase the likelihood of experimenting with other substances. In December 2024, Belgium became the first European Union country to enact a similar ban on disposable e-cigarettes.
The move aligns with the European Union's broader goal of achieving a "tobacco-free generation" by 2040. The EU aims to reduce the percentage of smokers within its 27 member states from approximately 25% today to below 5% over the next two decades.
Meanwhile, starting March 1, some cigarette packs in France will become slightly cheaper following months of price hikes. According to a decree published by French customs on February 7, select brands will see a reduction in price, while others will become more expensive.
The price of several 20-cigarette packs is set to decrease by €0.20, dropping from €10.60 to €10.40. Brands expected to see this price cut include: Camel Filters No.1, Corset Ice, Marlboro Red Collection, Philip Morris Kings Collection, The King Filters, and Winston Blue No.1
Conversely, some brands will see a €0.20 price increase. For instance, Maya Blue Spirit 100% Tabac and Maya Original Spirit 100% Tabac will rise from €11 to €11.20.