FRANCE STRENGTHENS ITS FIGHT AGAINST MARITIME CUSTOMS FRAUD
In a new effort to combat illicit trafficking, the French government plans to strengthen control measures in ports by requiring shipping companies to provide more information on goods in transit. This initiative is part of an anti-fraud bill expected this fall and aims to improve the efficiency of customs in detecting fraudulent activities.
According to information reported by Les Échos, the Ministry of Economy and Finance is seeking increased access to shipping companies’ data, modeled after the Passenger Name Record (PNR) used in the aviation sector. The goal is to better target inspections and more effectively identify suspicious cargoes, with the aim of combating various forms of trafficking, including drug trafficking.
While similar discussions are underway at the European Union level, France positions itself as a pioneer in this field, seeking to lead the way in cooperation between shipping companies and border security authorities. Thomas Cazenave, Minister Delegate for Public Accounts, emphasizes the importance of a debate on the status of shipping companies, calling on them to actively share information with authorities to enhance port security.
This approach demonstrates France’s commitment to modernizing its customs control practices to adapt to the new realities of international trade. By requesting increased access to shipping companies’ data, the French government hopes to strengthen customs’ ability to prevent and combat criminal activities in ports, thereby enhancing the security and safety of trade exchanges.
