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Finnish Customs investigated 404 tax fraud cases last year, with cigarette smuggling accounting for a significant share of all offences, according to newly published figures. The rise in cases marked a growing role for Customs in efforts to combat the shadow economy and economic crime.
In 2024, Finnish Customs reported a notable increase in the number and size of seizures involving illicit tobacco products.
Most tax fraud investigations involved smuggling of cigarettes and snus, often involving large volumes and high tax losses. Of the total fraud cases, 71 were classified as aggravated.
According to Tarja Koskenlaakso, Director of Enforcement at Finnish Customs, the agency remains a central actor in the national effort to fight undeclared and criminal economic activity.
“Finnish Customs actively contributes to the national programme for combating the shadow economy in cooperation with other authorities,” Koskenlaakso said. “These efforts aim to improve the shared understanding of shadow economy actors and strengthen oversight powers, including customs inspection rights.”
Despite the overall rise in tobacco-related smuggling, the number of tax fraud cases was lower than in previous years due to changes in the legal interpretation of snus offences. In June 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that smuggling of snus would no longer be categorised as tax fraud, reducing the overall case count.
Additionally, the closure of Finland’s eastern border has impacted the volume and nature of cross-border smuggling.
Customs is tasked with investigating financial crime cases falling under its jurisdiction, where tax fraud or aggravated tax fraud typically serve as the primary charge. Economic crime cases also include smuggling of excise-taxed goods such as alcohol and tobacco, especially when the activity resembles business operations.
Customs also plays a role in the national law enforcement structure, with both investigative and supervisory responsibilities.
The ongoing fight against the shadow economy relies on inter-agency cooperation. Finnish authorities continue to implement a series of action plans focused on improving detection, enabling legal enforcement, and strengthening fair competition among businesses.
These plans aim to reduce undeclared economic activity and develop new tools for prevention and investigation.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
