France: New Legislation Against Tobacco Smuggling - Impact on Andorra

Update: December 2, 2025 - French MPs recently approved a European resolution proposal at the National Assembly aimed at combating the parallel tobacco trade. This initiative could have significant repercussions on the Andorran market and cross-border shopping in Pas de la Case.

A French resolution to combat tobacco trafficking

The French National Assembly has adopted a European resolution proposal put forward by MP Frédéric Valletoux (Horizons). Although this text is not legally binding, it marks France's official position on a subject that will soon be debated at the European level.

The resolution has three main objectives:

• Combat the parallel tobacco trade between member states
• Establish supply quotas adjusted to each country's actual consumption
• Reinstate import limits for individuals buying tobacco in other European countries

4.3 billion euros in tax losses for France

According to official data, France loses 4.3 billion euros a year in tax revenue due to cross-border tobacco purchases. This considerable shortfall explains the French government's determination to tighten legislation.

Luxembourg under scrutiny

The French National Committee Against Smoking (CNCT) is particularly critical of the situation in Luxembourg. According to their data, tobacco manufacturers supply Luxembourg with 21.56 cigarettes per day per inhabitant, 36 times more than in the United Kingdom.

This overproduction is said to feed parallel markets and allow national public health policies to be bypassed. France wants the European Union to impose supply quotas proportional to the actual consumption of each member state.

The WHO Protocol: a commitment not honoured

France has ratified the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, which has been in force internationally since 2018. However, one embarrassing fact stands out: France has never paid its contributions to the Protocol.

The arrears amount to 2.5 million dollars, the equivalent of a year's budget for deploying supply chain control and international cooperation measures. At the 4th session of the Meeting of the Parties (MOP4), held from 24 to 26 November 2025 in Geneva, the CNCT and the Global Alliance for Tobacco Control (GATC) strongly criticised this failure.

A proposal for a price moratorium

Serdar Kaya, president of the French National Confederation of Tobacconists, proposes a complementary solution: a temporary moratorium on cigarette pack prices.

"We are not asking for a specific price. What we are asking for is a moratorium. The Nord and Pas-de-Calais departments are the only ones where we have won back former customers who used to buy Belgian cigarettes and who are now coming back to France. Why? Because prices in Belgium are now around 11.50 euros."

The aim would be to temporarily reduce the price gap with neighbouring countries in order to win back black-market consumers, while protecting the state's tax revenue and legal businesses.

What consequences for Andorra and Pas de la Case?

If this resolution leads to a binding European directive, several scenarios are possible for the Andorran market:

1. Reduction of personal import quotas

The current limits (300 cigarettes per person) could be revised downwards, reducing legal purchases by French tourists in Pas de la Case.

2. Stricter customs controls

France could step up controls at the Andorran border to combat quota violations and smuggling.

3. Pressure on Andorran prices

If France applies a temporary price moratorium, the price gap between France and Andorra could narrow, reducing the appeal of Pas de la Case.

4. Impact on local trade

Tobacco shops in Pas de la Case, which rely heavily on French customers, could see their turnover affected.

Timeline to watch

Here are the key steps to follow over the coming months:

What should you do as a buyer?

While we wait to see how this legislation develops, here are our recommendations:

• Strictly respect the current quotas (300 cigarettes/person)
• Keep your receipts to prove your purchases were legal
• Stay informed about legislative developments via our website
• Do not try to get around the rules: fines can be very high
• Regularly check our page on customs regulations

Our editorial position

At Pas-de-la-Case.fr, we are closely following this legislative development, which could significantly impact shopping tourism in Pas de la Case. We are committed to keeping you informed of any developments in this situation.

It's important to note that:

• The duty-free tobacco trade has been part of the Andorran economy for decades
• Current quotas allow for legal and reasonable purchases
• Compliance with regulations is essential to preserving this trade
• The fight against genuine organised smuggling is legitimate

Frequently asked questions

Is this resolution already in force?

No, for now it is only a French resolution proposal that is not legally binding. It will need to be debated at the European level to become an applicable directive.

Will import quotas drop immediately?

No, the current quotas (300 cigarettes per adult) remain in force. Any change will require a decision at the European level and an implementation period.

Can I still shop in Pas de la Case?

Yes, absolutely. As long as you respect the current legal quotas, your purchases are perfectly legal and pose no problem.

When could this legislation come into force?

If it is adopted at the European level, the legislative process will take several months, or even years. The revision of the European Tobacco Products Directive is planned for 2026.

Is Andorra affected?

Indirectly, yes. Although Andorra is not an EU member, import quotas from Andorra into France could be changed.

Conclusion

This French resolution proposal marks a clear political will to combat the parallel tobacco trade and protect tax revenue. If it leads to a European directive, it could significantly change cross-border shopping habits and impact the economy of Pas de la Case.

We will continue to closely follow this story and keep you informed of any developments. Stay tuned!

Source: La Veu Lliure (November 30, 2025)