Customs destroys more than 8 million cigarettes seized for smuggling
The General Directorate of Customs (DGA), in a joint effort with various state institutions, executed the destruction of 8,287,820 cigarette units this Thursday. These products were confiscated following attempts at irregular entry into the national territory during the period between March 2025 and May 2026, thus preventing an estimated tax evasion of RD$53,290,682.60.
Hard-hitting operations against illicit trade
The Director General of Customs, Nelson Arroyo, emphasized that this measure is part of a comprehensive strategy to safeguard the national economy and protect public health. The operations were made possible thanks to the work of the DGA’s Intelligence Management, with the support of the Army and Navy of the Dominican Republic, the General Directorate of Internal Taxes (DGII), and the Public Ministry.
With these actions, we protect tax collection, promote transparency, and send a clear message that we will continue to firmly confront all practices that affect formal trade and the country’s economic development.
Nelson Arroyo, Director General of CustomsArroyo clarified that this batch destroyed at the Resicla facilities in Los Alcarrizos does not include the recent seizures recorded at the Caucedo Multimodal Port, which are part of different control processes, but are equally strategic for the security of the State.
Private sector support
Erick Pérez, representing the Dominican Cigarette Industry Association (ASOCIGAR), highlighted the importance of these actions to block smuggling. According to the executive, this institutional deployment not only combats tax evasion but also reinforces security and the environment of trust necessary for investment in the country.
Interinstitutional coordination
The event was attended by authorities from the United States Embassy, high-ranking military officials, and representatives of the Illicit Trade Roundtable. This working group, key in the fight against illegal trade, is made up of strategic entities such as:
- Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs (MICM)
- National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD)
- Pro Consumidor and Ministry of Public Health
- Specialized Border Security Corps (Cesfront) and Fuel Control Corps (CECCOM)
- Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic (AIRD) and CONEP
With this conference, the DGA reaffirms its zero-tolerance stance against illicit practices that undermine the commercial order of the Dominican Republic.
