Overview
- Audirep carried out about 1,000 mystery-shopping visits nationwide in summer 2025 for the CNCT using a 17-year-old attempting purchases.
- Tobacconists sold to minors in 31% of tests and e-liquids in 32%, with a similar 34% noncompliance rate observed in vape shops despite long-standing bans.
- Identity checks were largely absent, with 81% of tobacconists and 77% of vape retailers failing to request ID during the visits.
- Illegal sales were more common in Île-de-France, the Grand Est, and municipalities with more than 15,000 residents.
- Authorities raised fines to €1,500 in June, and on October 1 the Conseil d'État rejected a bid for tighter controls while noting the ban remains very insufficiently respected.