France became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on February 27, 2005.

Smoke Free Places: Smoking is generally prohibited in indoor public places and workplaces; however, in some of these places, owners or managers may create designated smoking areas. Smoking is prohibited in most forms of public transport, with exceptions for taxis and outdoor places on commercial watercraft. The law also prohibits smoking in some outdoor areas, specifically those that are regularly frequented by minors. Sub-national jurisdictions may enact smoke free laws that are more stringent than the national law.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship: All forms of domestic and cross-border tobacco advertising and promotion are prohibited, subject to a few exceptions. Product display is currently allowed at points of sale. All forms of financial or other sponsorship by the tobacco industry are prohibited. However, the law allows the rebroadcast of motorsport competitions containing direct or indirect advertising of brand stretching products and that take place in countries where tobacco advertising is allowed.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling: Standardized (plain) packaging is required for all packs of cigarettes and rolling tobacco. Packaging must be a standard color, size, and shape and may only contain specified information and the prescribed health warnings. All smoked tobacco products must carry combined text/picture health warnings occupying 65 percent of the front and back of the tobacco product package. Warnings are required to rotate. One general warning and one informational message on constituents and emissions must occupy 50 percent of each side of the package. For smokeless tobacco products, one authorized text warning must occupy 30 percent of the front and back of the tobacco product package. Misleading packaging and labeling, which could include terms such as “light” and “low tar” and other signs, is prohibited.

Tobacco Taxation and Prices: The World Health Organization recommends raising tobacco excise taxes so that they account for at least 70 percent of retail prices. Tobacco excise taxes in France are below these recommendations.