In a landmark decision, France has officially banned the sale, manufacture and distribution of disposable electronic cigarettes, commonly known as “puffs,” becoming only the second EU nation to do so. The ban, driven by both health and environmental concerns, has gone into effect immediately.
The disposable e-cigarettes, known for their sweet flavours, colourful designs and ease of use, have been officially outlawed in France. The country follows in the footsteps of Belgium, which introduced a similar ban on 1st January 2025.
Often marketed as a less dangerous alternative to traditional smoking, products like puffs are nonetheless highly addictive due to their high nicotine content and have proved worryingly popular with adolescents. Moreover, the long-term health effects of inhaling vaporised substances remain uncertain due to limited scientific research.
Beyond the health risks, these disposable e-cigarettes pose a significant environmental threat. Designed for single use, with anything from 200 to 700 puffs depending on the product, they are made from plastic, heavy metals and lithium batteries, making them difficult to recycle. As a consequence, puffs often end up as hazardous waste.
Millions of puffs are improperly discarded each year, contributing to soil and water pollution. By banning these devices, France aims to reduce their ecological footprint and promote more sustainable consumption habits.
The bill to ban puffs, championed by rapporteur MPs Khalifé Khalife and Michel Lauzzana, is part of the National Tobacco Control Programme 2023-2027. The measure gained unanimous support in both the National Assembly and the Senate, highlighting a rare instance of a united front from all parties.
Catherine Vautrin, Minister of Labour, Health, Solidarity and Families, welcomed the decision, stating, “I am delighted with the unanimous adoption of this ban by Parliament, which I had committed to in January 2024. This vote demonstrates a collective awareness of the danger that puffs represent for our children and adolescents. These products too often trap young people in an initial use that can lead to smoking. It is a common sense and responsible measure to protect their health and support families in preventing addictive behaviour.”
France already has strict regulations on vaping. Sales to minors are prohibited, nicotine content is capped at 20 mg/ml and advertising is heavily restricted. With this new ban, authorities will be able to extend their oversight. The General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) will be responsible for ensuring compliance and imposing sanctions on violators.
As France takes this decisive step, the vaping industry will need to adapt to the changing regulatory landscape. This ban sends a strong message about the government’s dedication to safeguarding public health and protecting the environment, setting a precedent for future laws in these arenas.
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