Andorra PM Defends Anti-Smuggling Shop Hours in Pas de la Casa

Andorra's head of government, Xavier Espot, dismissed claims that anti-tobacco smuggling measures in Pas de la Casa discriminate against local traders, framing the reduced shop hours as a reasonable step with built-in advantages for businesses.

Speaking at the traditional Christmas press breakfast on 16 December 2025, Espot said the new limits—allowing shops to open at 7am and close at 8pm—do not represent an excessive restriction. He pointed to the ongoing moratorium on new commercial licences, which curbs future competition and could amount to positive discrimination for existing operators. "The glass can be half full or half empty," he noted, urging critics to show restraint in their statements and avoid unfounded indignation.

Interior and Justice Minister Ester Molné echoed this, calling the measures part of a "complex and in-depth shock plan" designed for medium-term impact. She highlighted recent steps, including a tender for 15 additional police officers, regulatory changes to the Sensitive Goods Law for greater trader transparency, the tobacco licence moratorium, and planned Penal Code updates to bolster enforcement.

Molné stressed productive talks with the local tobacco traders' association, describing a "very good rapport" and their willingness to assist, while acknowledging natural concerns over commerce impacts. The focus remains on Pas de la Casa as the main hotspot for smuggling activity, particularly involving French cross-border shoppers stockpiling goods. French authorities have expressed readiness to tighten frontier checks, following discussions with Andorran officials.

Because the rules are set by decree, Molné added, the government will monitor outcomes closely and adjust as needed—potentially strengthening or easing provisions based on results.