Pas de la Casa Retailers Demand Stronger Aid Amid RN-20 Closure Crisis

Pessimism is deepening among retailers in Pas de la Casa, as business owners report that government aid measures have delivered no sales boost despite ideal conditions, fuelling calls for stronger intervention amid the prolonged RN-20 closure.

At a meeting of the Unió de Comerciants Andorrans del Tabac (UCAT) this morning, most members from the border parish took part, joined by other local shopkeepers. The gathering underscored that the downturn's severity has exceeded early forecasts, eroding trust in existing support and prompting demands for relief on payroll and rent costs.

UCAT president Raül Calvo outlined two key discussion topics: forthcoming changes to the sensitive goods law, including new registration rules effective next month, and the persistent fallout from the RN-20 shutdown. Retailers voiced concern that the restrictive controls—endorsed by the government and Encamp parish council—fail to stimulate trade at this pivotal moment.

Calvo cited last weekend as stark evidence: the first spell of fine winter weather, free of snow, wind or rain, plus fuel vouchers as an extra incentive, yet commercial activity saw no improvement. This has raised doubts over whether the slump will remain limited to the road closure's three-month span, or stretch longer, with shop owners feeling sidelined and poorly represented by the economic and social council.

The group expressed frustration that current measures do not shield workers, described by Calvo as the chain's weakest link. He criticised the lack of direct government engagement and growing distrust in RN-20 reopening timelines, leaving the sector "worried and angry" over the entrenched crisis.

UCAT is now organising a wider meeting next week, focused on Pas de la Casa traders, to forge consensus on data-driven proposals. These will urge the government to consider ERTO schemes, rent relief for commercial properties, or equivalent steps to address critical payroll and leasing burdens.