Eradication of Illicit Trade, Smuggling and Counterfeiting of Regulated Products Law No. 17-19

Issue

An FHC client in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector retained us to collaborate in the drafting and approval process of a bill directed at criminalizing illicit trade of specific regulated products. The purpose of this initiative was to facilitate the criminal prosecution of those engaging in illicit trade under Dominican law, which was not previously possible under the existing legal framework.

Our Role

Working in tandem with several governmental entities responsible for preventing illicit trade and members of the Senate Industry and Commerce Committee, FHC and the advisors to other affected FMCG companies presented a consensus draft bill endorsed by multiple business associations. The goal was to ensure that the interests of each affected sector were reflected in the bill submitted by the sponsoring Senator. We then coordinated efforts among various industries to provide context to stakeholders and advocate for the bill’s approval.

Results

Promulgation of Law 17-19 in February 2019.