SUSTAINABLE FOREIGN TRADE: THE ROLE OF CUSTOMS IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Abstract

 The intensification of international trade and the expansion of global value chains have increased the need to integrate sustainability into foreign trade operations. In this context, customs authorities have assumed a strategic role not only in tax control and cargo inspection, but also in environmental protection. This study aims to analyze the role of customs in promoting sustainable foreign trade, identifying the legal and operational instruments used in environmental inspection, as well as the challenges related to the integration of sustainability and international trade. The research is characterized as qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory, developed through bibliographic and documentary analysis. The results demonstrate that technological modernization, international cooperation, and traceability mechanisms strengthen customs performance in combating environmental crimes and promoting sustainable practices within global value chains.