Andorra PM Rejects Discrimination Claims Over Anti-Smuggling Shop Hours

Andorra's head of government, Xavier Espot, has rejected accusations that anti-tobacco smuggling measures in Pas de la Casa amount to discrimination against local traders, arguing that reduced shop hours represent a modest limit offset by benefits like curbs on future competition.

At the traditional Christmas press breakfast on 16 December 2025, Espot described the new opening hours—from 7am to 8pm—as far from excessive. He highlighted the moratorium on new commercial licences, which he said could be seen as positive discrimination by shielding existing businesses from added rivals. "The glass can be half full or half empty," Espot remarked, calling for measured criticism and cautioning against undue outrage from the sector.

Interior and Justice Minister Ester Molné reinforced the stance, portraying the initiatives as a comprehensive medium-term strategy. She listed recent actions: a tender for 15 extra police officers, amendments to the Sensitive Goods Law to boost trader transparency, the tobacco licence moratorium, and forthcoming Penal Code revisions to sharpen anti-smuggling tools. Molné noted strong cooperation with French authorities, who have signalled willingness to intensify border controls targeting cross-border shoppers from France accumulating goods.

The minister reported positive dialogue with the local tobacco traders' association, with members ready to contribute despite understandable worries about sales impacts. Pas de la Casa remains the priority due to its status as the smuggling epicentre. Implemented via decree, the rules allow for ongoing evaluation, with potential adjustments to tighten or relax them based on results, Molné added.

A government statement on 17 December reiterated these points, with Espot emphasising that the licence moratorium indirectly aids current operators by preventing competition growth.