UN Panel Linked Moïse to Illicit Glass Eel Exports
A UN report identified an illegal smuggling network involving Haitian authorities and Dominican boat operators.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in International Trade
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A United Nations Panel of Experts investigation published in September 2026 accused Jean-Charles Moïse of overseeing an illicit glass eel export network. The report detailed how the network allegedly pressured customs officials to facilitate the smuggling of eels through Dominican partners.
Why it matters
The findings underscore how weak governance and a lack of international treaty oversight in Haiti enable criminal networks to exploit natural resources. This illicit trade significantly underpays local fishermen while siphoning revenue through systemic tax fraud.
International market prices for glass eels range from $3,000 to $5,000 per kilogram, while local Haitian fishermen receive only 34 cents to $1.70 per kilogram. In 2022, Hong Kong imported 100.6 metric tons of live eel fry from Haiti.
The players
Jean-Charles Moïse
He is a prominent Haitian political figure accused by the UN of exerting influence over export permits to facilitate glass eel smuggling.
United Nations Panel of Experts on Haiti
This body conducts investigations and provides findings to the Security Council regarding illicit activities and stability in the nation.
Haitian Network of Anti-Corruption Journalists
This collective of investigative reporters monitors government transparency and alleged malfeasance within Haitian institutional sectors.
The details
The UN panel alleged that Jean-Charles Moïse utilized his influence to manipulate export permits and compel customs officials to allow unauthorized shipments. Investigations conducted from October 2025 through July 2026 revealed that these operations relied on Dominican boat owners to bypass standard exit protocols.
Timeline
Two confirmed smuggling cases occurred between October and December 2024.
The 2024-2025 fishing season saw the network utilize Dominican boats for transport.
UN experts conducted investigations from October 2025 through July 2026.
The official UN report investigation coverage concluded on July 10, 2026.
Market Dynamics
Haiti's absence from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora exacerbates the vulnerability of its natural resources to unregulated global markets. This lack of participation effectively removes oversight mechanisms that would otherwise prevent the large-scale exploitation documented in the report.
The exposure of these illicit networks highlights significant supply chain risks for international entities sourcing products from unregulated jurisdictions. Retail and institutional investors should monitor for increased compliance costs and potential trade restrictions as international oversight of Haitian exports tightens.
The takeaway
The exploitation of the glass eel trade reveals a significant gap in international resource protection and local anti-corruption enforcement. Global stakeholders should remain cautious of supply chains that lack transparency, particularly in regions where institutional oversight is compromised.
Further reading
For broader context on how regulatory gaps impact regional commerce, explore our International Trade section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Haitian Times.
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