The Federation of Tobacco Retailers in France is calling for a temporary freeze on tobacco product prices, arguing that rising costs are threatening both their business operations and the country’s public finances. Xavier Dupont, the group’s general treasurer, emphasized that the federation is not seeking special treatment but rather the right to maintain its existing monopoly, which he says requires proper regulation. To highlight their concerns, the group is organizing a week of protests starting Monday, with demonstrations planned in six cities across the country. Retailers are describing the current tax policies as a “fiscal outrage,” a term used to express strong disapproval of unfair or excessive taxation. Dupont criticized the recently passed Ripost law, which aimed to combat tobacco-related crime. However, the Constitutional Council, France’s top judicial body, struck down some key parts of the law that would have increased penalties for smuggling and counterfeiting tobacco products. The federation argues that these changes weaken efforts to secure their monopoly and protect against illegal trade. In response, they are demanding a pause on tobacco taxes and an end to automatically increasing cigarette prices in line with inflation, which they say only benefits criminal networks. According to Dupont, every price increase for cigarette packs indirectly helps traffickers and organized crime, making the current situation a critical turning point. He claims that the rising costs are not only harmful to public finances but also undermine the economic stability of tobacco retailers. The protests aim to show that the issue is not confined to Paris but is a nationwide concern affecting tobacco sellers across France. The demonstrations will take place in several cities, including Muret in the Haute-Garonne region, where around 500 tobacco retailers are expected to participate. Other cities hosting events include Redon in Ille-et-Vilaine on Monday, Givors in Rhône and Saverne in Bas-Rhin on Tuesday, and Salon-de-Provence in Bouches-du-Rhône on Wednesday. A major national gathering is also planned in Vernon, in the Eure region, where Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu serves as First Deputy Mayor, highlighting the political significance of the issue.