Andorra Excels in Digital Access but Lags in Skills for Vulnerable Groups

Andorra boasts near-universal internet access, with 96% of residents connecting daily, but significant digital skill gaps remain among older people, low-income households, those with limited education, and small businesses, particularly in the primary sector.

The latest Andorra Digital survey, covering 678 companies and 800 residents, reveals that 79% of citizens possess basic digital competencies, enabling widespread use of services such as online banking (84%) and e-commerce (70%). Agency director David Vicente described access as "almost universal," positioning Andorra as one of Europe's leaders in connectivity, though it performs averagely elsewhere.

Vulnerable groups lag behind. Only 60% of people aged 66-74 have the necessary skills, compared to 45% in low-income households and 28% among those with low educational levels. Vicente stressed the need to support these populations for true inclusivity, noting that "it makes no sense to offer services without minimum capacities to use them properly." Andorra Digital is intensifying efforts, including collaboration with elderly representatives and motivated "ambassadors" within the group to disseminate knowledge more effectively.

The agency has introduced measures such as a citizen-oriented website, technology safety guidelines, and a free online training platform to address these disparities.

Businesses show stark contrasts. Large firms lead Europe in AI adoption, with 100% usage and dedicated IT staff. In contrast, just 24% of SMEs employ AI, and only 12% have IT specialists. Primary sector enterprises—agricultural and livestock operations—trail most, though Vicente said adoption is progressing as awareness grows of tools that improve product quality and reduce costs.

Vicente underscored the push to help SMEs and primary businesses integrate these technologies for broader digital progress.