The Moldovan Customs Service and JTI are strengthening their partnership to protect the country's economic security and combat cigarette smuggling
In particular, during the meeting between Customs Service Director Radu Vrabie and representatives of JTI, the prospects for strengthening bilateral cooperation were discussed. As the first meeting organized in this format, the dialogue provided an opportunity to summarize the joint activities carried out, evaluate the results obtained, and identify new areas of cooperation aimed at strengthening institutional partnership. Radu Vrabie expressed his gratitude for the support and technical assistance provided by JTI, which has made a significant contribution to strengthening institutional capacity in the fight against fraud, especially in the development of the canine sector. At the same time, it was emphasized that partnership between the public and private sectors is important for effectively combating cross-border smuggling, protecting legitimate trade, and strengthening economic and national security. The central topic of discussion was the modernization of the Customs Service's canine service. In this context, the support provided by JTI in financing the feasibility study was noted. A concept for a new Canine Center is currently being developed, which envisages the creation of a modern infrastructure that meets international standards, is properly equipped, and is focused on optimizing the activities of canine units. The parties also analyzed opportunities for expanding the assistance provided by JTI in the next stages of the project, as well as current needs, including the provision of equipment, specialized means of transport for service dogs, and the purchase of new service dogs. Discussions also touched on the latest findings of the Novel Research study, which indicate a 3.7 percentage point decline in the share of Moldovan cigarettes on the Romanian black market, reflecting the positive impact of public and private sector efforts to combat cigarette smuggling. In this context, the Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to take tough measures to combat and suppress the illegal trafficking of tobacco products, a phenomenon that affects both the state budget and economic and social security. JTI representatives highly appreciated the active partnership with the Customs Service, noting the high level of training of dog handlers and inspectors, as well as the results achieved by customs authorities in combating cigarette smuggling. At the same time, they expressed their readiness to deepen cooperation and provide assistance in strengthening the institutional capacity of the Customs Service. In this regard, JTI representatives donated equipment to the Customs Service for canine units, which will be used both in training and professional development and to improve the conditions for service dogs, thereby contributing to the effectiveness of their work. // 30.01.2026 — InfoMarket
