Products such as perfumes, varnishes, or cosmetics that have not passed health controls may contain unauthorized or harmful substances, violating the safety of those who use them. In a joint operation between the Cuauhtémoc mayor's office, the Citizen Security Secretariat (SSC), and the Mexico City Administration and Finance Secretariat, over 79 tons of merchandise were seized for lacking documentation to prove their legal origin. The operation took place on Costa Rica Street, in the Centro neighborhood, an area known for its intense commercial activity and informal sales points. The intervention included the inspection of two three-ton vans, as well as a dry box and a warehouse where various products were stored, including perfumes, cosmetics, and foreign-made varnishes without the corresponding legal documentation. All these goods were left at the disposal of the authorities in charge of verifying their origin and determining corresponding responsibilities. Operation against informal trade This action is part of the efforts of the capital's authorities to combat smuggling and the sale of goods without the required permits, a phenomenon that affects both the formal economy and the public health of the population. Unregulated imported products can pose a risk to consumers, especially when it comes to cosmetics and perfumes that do not have health or quality certifications. In many areas of the Historic Center, the proliferation of goods with unverifiable origins has been documented, which has created pressure on established businesses that operate with permits and contribute to the local economy. Organizations such as the National Chamber of Commerce have previously pointed out this problem, mentioning that large quantities of uncontrolled imported goods end up being sold in the area, affecting traditional commerce. These types of operations are part of a broader strategy to ensure that products circulating in markets and commercial spaces comply with current regulations, protecting both consumers and legally constituted industries. Risks and effects of illicit trade The presence of irregularly imported goods not only represents an economic blow to formal merchants but can also imply risks to public health.
