Tobacconists demonstrate against the sale of illegal tobacco in the 18th arrondissement of Paris this Monday, February 3, 2025.
Exasperated by the proliferation of illegal cigarette sales, tobacconists in the Paris region have decided to call on the authorities. Their choice to meet in the 18th arrondissement is not insignificant: this district is particularly affected by the sale of tobacco on the sly.
" We are faced with a flagrant paradox, a system that needs to be reviewed. The government's laudable aim is to reduce tobacco consumption by raising prices. But this strategy, isolated and disconnected from the reality on the ground, is having the opposite effect ", deplores the Fédération des Buralistes Paris Île-de-France, which initiated the demonstration.
The figures put forward by the industry are edifying. By 2023, 40% of tobacco smoked in France will come from the illegal market. A rising trend that worries tobacconists: "At this rate, we'll reach 50% by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, our sales are falling drastically: -11.5% in 2024 ", warns the federation.
These losses can be explained by the rise in cross-border purchases, but above all by illicit sales on the street or on social networks, which escape all tax and health controls.
According to the organizers, a hundred or so industry professionals are expected to attend, along with several local elected representatives, to demand tighter controls and an intensified fight against this clandestine trade. It remains to be seen whether this mobilization will be enough to make the authorities react.
In short, if you're travelling in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, please note that traffic and travel may be disrupted in the Max Dormoy area.
Prices
Billets : €14.5 - €27.5
Recommended age
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