It is not just criminals that might use it

The misuse of international trade practices extends beyond criminal organizations and individuals
trying to avoid taxes or evade exchange controls. In 2014, the US authorities acted by issuing a
forfeiture order worth $102 million against a Lebanese bank that was implicated in a scheme. This
scheme involved the export of used cars to West Africa, with the proceeds being redirected to
benefit Hizballah.
Similarly, in 2015, a leaked Turkish report brought to light alleged connections between Turkish front
companies, Iranian banks, and currency exchange entities in Dubai. This scheme involved inflating
invoice values, for example, pricing a pound of sugar at an exorbitant $240. This manipulation
allowed Iran to gain access to much-needed hard currency for its oil sales. These instances highlight
how international trade can be exploited for various purposes, including illicit financial activities.