Measures to combat smuggling and corruption in the customs clearance of commercial goods in Ukraine

Abstract

The article deals with an important and relevant issue – measures to combat smuggling and corruption during customs clearance of commercial goods in Ukraine. The authors analyze the scientific doctrine regarding the nature and level of influence of smuggling and corruption on the state budget and the level of economic growth in Ukraine. It has been found out that scientists who choose different definitions and forms were unanimous about the negative nature and level of harmful influence of these phenomena on the economy of Ukraine. Various methods were used in the article: dogmatic, formal legal, and system-structural. It is proposed to analyze the main measures necessary to overcome smuggling and corruption in the customs clearance of commercial goods in Ukraine. First, the implementation of the principle of transparency in the activities of customs during the customs clearance of commercial goods. Second, updating the qualification requirements for positions in this service and the procedure for competitive selection. Third, criminalizing the smuggling of commercial goods. Fourth, establishing coordination of law enforcement and regulatory agencies of Ukraine with the relevant authorities of neighboring countries. Fifth, expanding the powers of the State Customs Service of Ukraine to investigate the smuggling of commercial goods. It is concluded that it is necessary and important to develop and introduce specific, rather than declarative, measures to counteract smuggling and corruption in the customs clearance of commercial goods in Ukraine.