Dubai Customs and Britain announced that their cooperation resulted in the seizure of 198 million illegal cigarettes and 122 tons of other illicit tobacco products (around 450 metric tons in total) in the UAE destined for the United Kingdom during the period from April 2018 to date.
The seized products represent lost tax revenues estimated to cost more than 175 million pounds (840 million dirhams) as part of the cooperation between the UAE and the United Kingdom in combating the trade in cigarettes and illegal tobacco products.
The United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom are the two international centers of international trade whose ports carry millions of tons of goods and goods daily. Although this sector is an important and vital part of every country's economy, some are targeting this booming sector for illegal gains.
To address this growing threat, the UK Revenue and Customs Commission has a Permanent Crimes Crimes Unit which is permanently located at the British Embassy in Dubai and works closely with its counterpart at Dubai Customs to intercept illegal goods destined for sale on the UK black market.
Simon York, director of fraud investigations at Britain's Revenue and Customs Service, said the United Kingdom and the UAE were global trade centers. General, thanking all those who participated in this process, praising the experience and efforts of the Dubai Customs team, thanking them for this valuable cooperation.
Dubai Customs is keen to develop cooperation and coordination with the United Kingdom to promote growth in mutual trade and protect against the risks of illegal trade in light of its mission to protect society and promote sustainable economic development. These seizures reflect the significant role played by Dubai Customs in addressing the risks of illegal trade and all fraudulent activities to protect the international supply chain.
He pointed out that Dubai's total foreign trade with the United Kingdom in 2018 was about 35.5 billion dirhams, of which imports contributed 23.9 billion dirhams, followed by re-exports worth 9.8 billion dirhams and exports worth 1.8 billion dirhams.
The United Kingdom ranked ninth among Dubai's top trading partners in 2018.
He added that joint seizures to intercept illegal tobacco products and thwart attempts by gangs of international character confirm the concerted efforts and integration of all concerned parties from government and semi-governmental institutions, the Rialo office, revenue and customs authorities in consulates and embassies. These efforts are one of the most important elements of success to promote and support legitimate trade. And protecting the economy and society.