In a twist that has alarm bells have been set off in the field of international trade, the recent elimination of suitability in customs clearance, driven by the controversial Decree DNU n°70/23, has fueled fears of an imminent collapse in customs control over imports and exports. This move, strikingly similar to a reform carried out in Mexico in 2013, has raised concerns about the integrity and reliability of the information contained in customs declarations.
History repeats itself: In Mexico, a similar reform allowed third parties to document without quality standards, capacity, moral or economic solvency, displacing Customs Agents. The result was chaos in the veracity of information, putting the security of international trade at risk. Now, Argentina faces a dangerous scenario, where the elimination of requirements could lead to the accumulation of poorly documented merchandise in customs, fueling fears of an increase in smuggling and corruption.
Experts and key players in international trade have expressed their concern, since the elimination of the registry system breaks with the harmonization of the Customs Code that has been in force for more than 40 years, in which the relationship between Customs and Customs Broker is public law, since it is an Auxiliary of the Customs Service (art. 36 of the aforementioned legal body) and obliged to report unusual and suspicious operations to the Financial Information Unit. Therefore, the immediate suspension of the measure for its review is essential. The premise is clear: It is necessary to debate and adapt the regulations in a way that balances trade facilitation with the efficiency of customs control. The Mexican experience serves as a vivid warning of the risks associated with the elimination of standards, and Argentina has the opportunity to learn from these mistakes before the consequences become irreparable.
The business community, customs brokers and authorities must join together in a concerted effort to prevent an irreparable catastrophe. The temporary suspension of this measure will allow for an informed debate and the implementation of necessary adjustments to preserve the integrity of the Argentine customs system. At this crucial moment, prudence and foresight are essential to safeguard the country's reputation internationally and ensure safe and efficient trade.
Article published in the Customs Brokers Center, with authorization for reproduction
The author is an advisor to the Customs Brokers Center and Co-editor of the Customs Code, Law 22415 and amendments.
Aduana News is the first Argentine customs newspaper to launch its digital version. With 20 years of experience, its publications and initiatives aim to provide the most relevant knowledge on customs issues in order to contribute to safe trade in the region.
