Illegal trade crackdown results in seizure of goods worth over K596 million

 

EFFORTS to combat illegal trade, overseen by the Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee, are being carried out effectively in accordance with the law.

On 16 October, industrial materials valued at over K380 million were seized at the Asia World Port Terminal checkpoint due to a lack of official documentation. Subsequently, on 18 October, two types of consumer goods worth K10.08 million were confiscated from a Hino Profia Truck, estimated at K40 million, at the Mayanchaung permanent checkpoint, with action taken under Customs procedures.

On 19 October, a combined team led by the Shan State Illegal Trade Eradication Task Force conducted inspections near the Kengtung detour, seizing three types of illegal consumer goods valued at K37.4 million from another Hino Profia Truck, valued at K80 million, also under Customs procedures.

Furthermore, on 20 October, a combined team from the Sagaing Region Illegal Trade Eradication Task Force confiscated two unregistered vehicles valued at K28 million near the Yadanabon combined checkpoint, following the Export-Import Law.

Additionally, a team from the Bago Region Illegal Trade Eradication Task Force seized 19.095 tonnes of illegal teak, valued at over K16.8 million, under the Forest Law.

Overall, on 16, 18, and 20 October, a total of nine arrests were made, leading to the seizure of illegal items worth approximately K596.5 million. The Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee has reported that illegal trade poses a major obstacle to the country’s economic development and significantly impacts the socio-economic sector. Consequently, the committee has stated its commitment to intensifying efforts against illegal trade.— MNA/ TRKM