Obvious to me too. My point is questioning the morality of governments who think they have the right to the fruits of your labor simple by crossing their borders. I know that it is a time honored way of governments to acquire the wealth of others, but I'm questioning the morality of it, not its history.
She didn't want them stolen
She didn't want them stolen by the government. Does the nature of the thief matter if your wealth is stolen/confiscated?
What about the effect that will have on business people who do pay the proper duties on their imported merchandise?
Quite likely, but she accepted a higher risk for a potentially higher reward. Doing away with import duties would level the playing field.
I understand and agree with the general notion of limiting government intrusion. But there is also a general public welfare need to be considered. Yes, the govey lays taxes and that crap as collateral to this, which I despise, but, for the general public welfare, we also need to be sure that such “transactions” are not furthering crime against the general population and destroying other’s right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.