The Lithuanian Presidency has announced a strengthening of customs border controls aimed at combating smuggling and circumventing sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus. This new enforcement measure comes as Lithuania grapples with the threat of dangerous goods entering the country. The head of customs, D. Matulionis, noted that full utilization of X-ray equipment at major border checkpoints has led to a reduction in the smuggling flow over land routes, prompting smugglers to seek alternative methods of transporting illegal goods, such as through ports or balloons. Matulionis's comments also highlight the complications surrounding phytosanitary controls, particularly in light of an ongoing corruption investigation involving the State Plant Protection Service. This inquiry is focused on phytosanitary permits for the export of plants which raises concerns about the effectiveness and integrity of the current monitoring systems at borders. While he acknowledges the potential implications for phytosanitary posts at the border, he refrained from making speculative comments on the matter. The tightening of border controls not only underscores Lithuania's commitment to enhancing national security but also raises questions about the adequacy of existing regulatory frameworks to cope with emerging threats. As the landscape of smuggling evolves, it will be critical for authorities to adapt their strategies and ensure that both customs and phytosanitary checks work effectively to safeguard public health and security.