Roundtable on Illicit Trade

Illicit trade-the transnational smuggling of illegal goods-has grown dramatically in the era of globalization thanks to modern technology, free trade zones, and the absence of the rule of law in many countries. Today, the shadow economy is booming and is estimated to account for up to 8 to 15 percent of world GDP.

This roundtable brought U.S. government officials together with representatives of companies, associations, and organizations working to combat illicit trade. Participants discussed policy responses to the growing threat of illicit trade and how to build effective public-private partnerships.

Officials from the intelligence community, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of State discussed their agencies' roles in the struggle to stem the tide of illicit trade.