France has decided to ban electronic cigarettes because of the risk they pose to the environment and public health. Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne said the measure was part of a new anti-smoking plan being drawn up by the government and should be in place by the end of the year.
Electronic cigarettes, or otherwise called vapes, in France cost around 9 euros. France's National Academy of Medicine described them as a "cunning trap for children and teenagers".
Activists accuse manufacturers, most of them based in China, of deliberately targeting teenagers, using bright colors and a range of flavors reminiscent of a sweet shop, for example marshmallow, chocolate and hazelnut, watermelon and candy.
Activists have also highlighted the environmental damage caused by disposable e-cigarettes.
Several other countries in Europe, including Germany, Belgium and Ireland, have announced similar bans. The United Kingdom is also said to be considering one.
