MODERN APPROACHES AND INNOVATIVE METHODS OF FIGHTING SMUGGLING IN THE ACTIVITIES OF CUSTOMS AUTHORITIES OF UKRAINE

The article examines modern approaches and innovative methods of combating smuggling, which are used in the activities of customs authorities to ensure customs security, as a component of the national security of Ukraine. The authors analyze the latest technologies that help to increase the effectiveness of detecting, preventing and countering the illegal movement of goods across state borders. The main focus is on the implementation of digitization, automation of processes and the use of analytical tools such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to monitor risks and model the behavioral patterns of smugglers. The benefits of using big data (Big Data) in combination with forecasting systems to detect anomalies in commodity flows and optimize the inspection process are considered. The article also emphasizes the importance of the integration of international databases and the strengthening of cooperation between customs authorities of different countries for a more effective exchange of information on potential threats. Successful examples of the use of blockchain technologies to ensure transparency of supply chains are analyzed, which allows tracking each stage of the movement of goods and preventing counterfeiting and smuggling. Goal. The purpose of this article is to study modern trends in the field of smuggling, evaluate the effectiveness of traditional methods of combating it, and develop proposals for improving the activities of customs authorities using innovative technologies and approaches. Materials and methods. The materials of the study are: 1) regulatory and legal support of the activities of customs authorities in countering the manifestations of smuggling; 2) scientific research of domestic and foreign authors in the field of ensuring customs security of Ukraine. In the course of the research, the following scientific methods were used: analysis and synthesis, theoretical generalization and grouping, formalization, logical generalization of results (formulation of conclusions). The results. As a result of the study, it was concluded that a comprehensive approach to combating smuggling, which includes the use of innovative technologies, improvement of analysis methods and strengthening of international cooperation, significantly increases the efficiency of customs authorities and contributes to the security of the economic borders of the state. Prospects. With the emergence of new technologies and changes in international trade, new challenges arise in the activities of customs authorities, in further scientific research it is proposed to focus on the implementation of the latest technologies in the activities of customs authorities, aimed at preventing and detecting smuggling, namely, the use of artificial intelligence in their activities. This will make it possible to develop modern methods of combating smuggling.