Ongereguleerde sigarettenhandel kost Suriname miljarden

Unregulated cigarette trade costs the Surinamese government $40 million annually. Smuggling began after tax increases in 2006 and continues today, involving both genuine and counterfeit 'quality cigarettes.' Authorities see a connection to drug trafficking and money laundering. Free-trade zones pose challenges in combating the phenomenon. Better cooperation between financial, trade, security, and health institutions is needed.