Image: from Policia Andorra X@andorra_policia
By Emma Cole | Staff Writer with Agencies
In a recent statement to Diari on November 11, 2025, the French Ambassador to Andorra, Nicolas Eybalin, expressed the French government’s satisfaction with Andorra’s newly announced measures aimed at combating smuggling, particularly in tobacco. Eybalin confirmed that while the evaluation is still in the early stages, Paris believes that Andorra is on the right path to curbing the illegal trade.
“The Andorran government has understood the message. Smuggling is no longer an activity carried out by individuals, but is now controlled by criminal networks, often violent, that pose a security risk for both France and Andorra,” said Eybalin. He emphasized the importance of keeping this illicit activity under control to prevent its expansion, noting that the collaboration between the French gendarmerie, Andorran police, and the Spanish Civil Guard already exists but requires further strengthening.
The French Ambassador also highlighted the negative consequences of smuggling in France, particularly in terms of public health and safety. He recalled a tragic accident that occurred two years ago, where two young French women were killed when they were hit by a smuggler returning from Andorra with cigarettes. This incident, according to Eybalin, underscores the need for stricter controls and cooperation between neighboring countries.
While discussing the concerns raised by some tobacco retailers in Andorra, Eybalin was blunt in his response. “I don’t understand the point of view of Andorra’s tobacco merchants. They should respect Andorran regulations,” he stated. The ambassador clarified that under the new anti-smuggling plan, sanctions for businesses that violate the rules, such as exceeding legal purchase limits, would be increased.
Eybalin’s remarks focused on specific practices, such as when a smuggler crosses the border with fifty cartons of cigarettes, when they are only allowed to purchase five legally. “That means some establishment has not respected Andorran law,” he said, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement and monitoring.
In conclusion, Eybalin expressed frustration at the slow pace of change but reiterated the French government’s commitment to combating smuggling. “I don’t know what more France could do,” he added, signaling the importance of greater cooperation between all parties involved.
The anti-smuggling measures announced by the Andorran government aim to curb the illicit tobacco trade, which has long been a problem for both Andorra and its neighboring countries. France’s support for these new policies underscores the cross-border nature of the issue and the shared interest in controlling illegal activities that affect both nations’ security and public health.
Key Points:
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France supports Andorra’s new anti-smuggling measures, especially regarding the illegal tobacco trade.
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Smuggling is increasingly controlled by violent criminal networks, posing risks to both countries.
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Eybalin emphasized the importance of international cooperation, particularly with the French gendarmerie, Andorran police, and Spanish Civil Guard.
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France is pushing for stronger sanctions against Andorran retailers that allow illegal tobacco purchases.
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Eybalin pointed to past incidents, such as a fatal accident caused by a smuggler, to highlight the dangers of the trade.