Customs Seizes 106 Million Illegitimate Cigarettes
Dutch customs stopped 106 million illegal cigarettes. Smuggling is happening because of high taxes. Customs is working to stop this activity.
In the first six months of 2023, Dutch customs seized a large amount of illegal cigarettes. The reason for this is that criminals are taking advantage of high taxes on tobacco products. This smuggling activity is mainly happening through the port of Rotterdam. Customs is using new scanning technology to find these cigarettes. They are also working with the FIOD, a Dutch police unit, to investigate these cases.
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Highlights
Large Cigarette Seizure
Dutch customs seized 106 million illegal cigarettes in the first half of 2023.
High Excise Taxes Drive Smuggling
Criminals are smuggling tobacco due to high excise taxes.
Rotterdam Port Focus
Increased smuggling activity is occurring through the Rotterdam port.
New Technology and Investigations
Customs is using new scanning technology and working with the FIOD.
Growing Criminal Enterprise
Tobacco smuggling is part of a growing criminal enterprise.