Colombian authorities intensify crackdown on liquor and cigarette smuggling

Authorities in Colombia are implementing new measures to combat the illegal trade of alcohol and tobacco. In Cundinamarca, the Secretariat of Finance conducted training sessions for officials and contractors to improve the detection and prevention of fraud related to consumption taxes on liquors, wines, and aperitifs. This initiative, supported by B&B Abogados, focuses on analyzing information to identify irregularities in the distribution and commercialization of these products to protect departmental revenue and consumer health.

In Valle del Cauca, anti-smuggling operations conducted between January and September 2026 resulted in the seizure of over 4.3 million cigarettes and 8,600 units of liquor, with a commercial value of approximately 1.48 billion pesos. These operations, coordinated by the Valle del Cauca Governor's Office, Police, Prosecutor's Office, and the National Directorate of Taxes and Customs (DIAN), led to the closure of 152 commercial establishments and 18 arrests. Officials warned that selling adulterated or smuggled goods can lead to criminal charges and permanent business closures.