SEC supports measures to combat illicit trade in Dominican Republic

The Sociedad de Empresas de Combustibles y Derivados (SEC) has expressed its support for initiatives aimed at preventing and combating illicit trade in the Dominican Republic. The organization highlighted the reactivation of the Public-Private Inter-institutional Council for the Prevention of Illicit Trade as a vital mechanism for coordinating responses between the state and the productive sector.

During a meeting led by Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso and the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, Eduardo Sanz Lovatón, participants discussed strengthening prevention, inspection, and prosecution. Proposed measures include better integration of the Penal Code with money laundering and asset forfeiture laws to target both illicit products and the economic structures supporting them.

SEC President Demetrio Almonte emphasized the need for regular meetings to ensure continuity and improve information exchange. Specifically regarding the fuel market, the SEC called for more robust traceability controls and improved procedures for the final disposal of seized or confiscated products to prevent them from re-entering commercial circuits.