France continues its aggressive push to reduce tobacco use. Following the introduction of plain packaging, several cigarette brands now face direct restrictions. On Tuesday, January 31, 2017, Health Minister Marisol Touraine announced new measures on tobacco pricing and sales of 'appealing' brands, published in the Official Journal the following Wednesday.
While cigarette pack prices remain stable, rolling tobacco prices will increase. The key change targets brands like Vogue, Fine, Allure, and Corset, which must rename to stay on shelves. Cigar brands Café Crème, Paradiso, and Punch are similarly affected. These names evoke a 'chic' image for smoking, as Touraine explained on RTL. Descriptors highlighting slimness ('slim' or 'superslim'), finesse, energizing effects, organic claims, or prominent flavors will also be banned. Manufacturers have one year for cigarettes and two years for cigars to comply.
