Combatting Illicit Trade Summit
of Customs Directors-General / ​Americas Region

ANA / TRACIT co-hosted event
Panama City, 26-27 March 2024

La Autoridad Nacional de Aduanas de Panama (ANA) and the Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade (TRACIT) convened the 1st Illicit Trade Summit of Customs Directors-General of the Americas. This summit served as a crucial platform to strengthen coordination, capabilities, and common standards in the ongoing battle against illicit trade.

The event drew the participation of 25 Directors-General from across the Americas, reflecting a significant milestone in the collective fight against illicit trade in the region. From Canada to Argentina, leaders came together to engage in fruitful discussions and share insights.

Throughout the Summit, panel discussions delved into innovative strategies to combat illicit trade and enhance global security. Key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, fast-moving consumer goods, alcohol, and crop protection products were highlighted, with a focus on advancing strategies and partnerships.

The Summit was also enriched by the involvement of key Intergovernmental Organizations including the World Customs Organization (WCO), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Their contributions underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by illicit trade.

A significant outcome of the Summit was the collective endorsement of a Joint Statement on Illicit Trade Mitigation. This statement symbolizes the shared resolve of Customs agencies to protect their economies and societies from the harmful impacts of illicit trade. It also signifies a commitment to fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange among Customs administrations.

Documents

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• Summit Summary Record: English / Español
• Official Media Release English / Español
• Joint Statement on Illicit Trade Mitigation / Declaración conjunta con miras a mitigar el comercio ilícito
• Summit Program:  English / Español
• Background paper for Discussion English / Español
• Summit Framework
• Event brochure English / Español​​​

Images

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​Videos

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Summit Opening remarks by ​Superintendent Fernando Waldir Núñez Jáuregui, Superintendencia Nacional de Aduanas y de Administración Tributaria (SUNAT) de Peru and WCO Vice Chair for Americas and Caribbean Region.