Smoking, vaping, HTP, NRT and snus in France

In France, e-cigarettes are allowed and regulated both as consumer products and as medicinal products. Online sales of e-cigarettes are permitted, and they are widely available in general retail outlets. However, health claims promoting e-cigarettes are not allowed, and there is a complete ban on all forms of advertising. Unlike some other European countries, France does not currently impose an excise tax on e-cigarette products. The country has a comprehensive regulatory framework governing e-cigarette manufacture and sale. Under these regulations, product notifications are required prior to market entry, and child-resistant and tamper-proof containers are mandatory. Health warnings must be clearly displayed on all packaging. Additionally, sales are restricted to individuals aged 18 years and above, and the maximum nicotine concentration is limited to 20 mg/ml. There are also tank capacity restrictions (2 ml or less) in line with European Union regulations. France does not impose flavour restrictions, but the use of e-cigarettes is prohibited in certain public places. As of 2022, France recorded approximately 3.6 million current vapers, with an adult current e-cigarette prevalence of 6.7% and daily vaping prevalence of 5%. Survey data from 2017 show that 24% of adults reported having tried e-cigarette vaping at least once. Public perception data collected in 2017 indicate that 62% of respondents viewed e-cigarettes as harmful or more harmful than traditional cigarettes, while 21% believed they were less harmful, and 17% were unsure.