The International Association of Professional Customs Agents (ASAPRA) was featured at the First Regional Summit Against Illicit Trade in the Americas, which concluded today after two days of intense debates (March 26 and 27, 2024), in the Republic of Panama.
Specifically, the meeting “Combatting Illicit Trade Summit», organized by the National Customs Authority of Panama and the Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade (TRACIT), brought together customs leaders from across the region to discuss strategies to combat illicit trade, a growing challenge that puts the security and economy of countries at risk.
Nelson Brens, representing the private sector and professional customs agents as president of ASAPRA, expressed its firm commitment to the fight against illicit trade. “On this occasion, the presence of the International Association served to reinforce the importance of dialogue between the public and private sectors in this battle, as well as to emphasize the crucial role played by professional customs agents in the security and efficiency of international trade.”
Today, the region faces renewed challenges due to the unprecedented situation arising from the coronavirus pandemic and the international situation.
But Nelson Brens expressed confidence in the Panama meeting - open to key actors in the fight against illegal activities - because ASAPRA provided a "significant achievement" to strengthen joint actions on the continent.
This is how the presentation of the book took place. Dr. Joe Henry Thompson Arguello, “Tax and Customs Fraud, as Preceding Crimes of Money Laundering and Types of Money Laundering”This work, which addresses the complex relationship between tax evasion, money laundering and illicit trade, was given to participants as a valuable resource to deepen their understanding of these challenges.
Additionally, ASAPRA leaders actively participated in the sessions The discussion addressed topics such as the rapid growth of the illicit trade in small packages, especially air cargo, and the need to improve data sharing and targeting of narcotics and wildlife. In addition, the discussion focused on how close collaboration can improve control in free zones and reduce vulnerability to illicit practices.
The summit concluded by highlighting the conclusions and commitments undertaken to strengthen cooperation in the fight against illicit trade.
President Nelson Brens highlighted ASAPRA's "active participation" in the first Summit of Directors General of Customs of the Americas, and reiterated the "commitment" to contribute to a "safer and more prosperous future" on the continent.
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.
