USA, which is famous for engaging in several smuggling operations, like the Iran-Contra affair.

I thought including 'bananas [...] republic' and 'Contra-ry' would be obvious enough of hints that I was being deeply sarcastic but alas

Sarcasm is a subtle art, my friend, and sometimes the audience misses the point. I did too, and re-read your comment and now see where you were going. <soft golf clap....>