It's a fairly common sight in the bigger French cities - unlicenced street vendors offering cigarettes from a cart or blanket at knock-down prices. The fine can be handed out by a police officer or city official and if paid within 15 days can be reduced to €90. If payment is not made with 60 days the fine can be increased up to a maximum of €375. Unlicenced vendors of all types are a common sight in French cities, particularly Paris where street vendors sell food, drink, cigarettes, sunglasses, mobile phones and - at tourist sites - thousands of different types of miniature Eiffel Towers. At one point riot police were even drafted in to patrol the area around the Eiffel Tower.

Source: The Local January 09, 2020 10:41 UTC