CBP CSMS Messages and Web Postings

1. ACE Experiencing Problems with Ad Hoc Reporting Functionality

2. ACE Experiencing Problems with Nightly Updating of Certain Reports

CBP has issued a CSMS message stating it has identified an issue with the nightly updating of Account Management reports where data is only complete through September 18, 2008. CBP states that this issue is currently being addressed and every effort will be made to update reports data as quickly as possible. When all data uploads are complete, a new message will be posted to the ACE News tab and sent via the Cargo Systems Messaging Service. Please note that Account Revenue and Transactions reports are not impacted by this issue. Updates to those reports are occurring as scheduled. (CSMS 08-000229, dated 09/24/08, available at http://apps.cbp.gov/csms/viewmssg.asp?Recid=17253&page=&srch_argv=08-000229&srchtype=all&btype=&sortby=&sby.)

3. Updated TRQ/TPL "Threshold to Fill" List

CBP has posted an updated version of its TRQ/TPL "threshold to fill" list, a quick reference to monitor tariff rate quotas and tariff preference levels that are approaching the restraint limit or have filled the in-quota (low duty) rate. The list is divided into two sections - quotas that are at least 85% filled and quotas that are closed. (List, posted 09/24/08, available at http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/trade/trade_programs/textiles_and_quotas/commodity/trq_thresh_fill.ctt/trq_thresh_fill.pdf.)

4. Other CBP Postings and Messages

CBP announces leadership changes. CBP Commissioner Basham recently announced the appointment of 11 new members of the agency's executive leadership, as well as the retirement of three CBP employees. (News release, dated 09/23/08, available at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/09232008_6.xml.)

ACE account activation process. CBP has posted a document entitled "ACE Information for New and Existing Accounts - Account Activation Process." (Document, posted 09/24/08, available at http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/trade/automated/modernization/ace_app_info/ace_app_instructions.ctt/ace_app_instructions.pdf.)

ACE Trade Ambassador Profile: Barry O'Brien. CBP has posted a profile of ACE Trade Ambassador Barry O'Brien of Hasbro, Inc.

CBP, stakeholders in San Juan partner as part of "Model Ports" initiative. CBP Headquarters has issued a press release announcing that the Luis Muoz Marin International Airport was one of the 18 airports selected to be part of the Model Ports Initiative. In an effort to improve the passenger process at the LMM International Airport, San Juan field operations met with local stakeholders on September 10. CBP is working in partnership with Puerto Rico Port Authorities, Puerto Rico Tourism, Department of State, Transportation Security Administration, American Airlines, American Eagle, COPA, Iberia and Jet Blue to make this a smooth and effective transition. (Press release, dated 09/22/08, available at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/09222008_2.xml.)

Agriculture specialists intercept Asian Gypsy Moth eggs, adults. CBP has issued a press release announcing that agriculture specialists at the Brownsville port of entry intercepted a significant pest found on a vessel, not previously found in Brownsville, Texas. On September 8, 2008 CBP agriculture specialists boarded the vessel and discovered egg masses and adult moths whose appearance was consistent with Asian Gypsy Moth. (Press release, dated 09/22/08, available at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/09222008.xml.)

Operation Stonegarden promotes interagency cooperation. CBP has issued a press release which states that Operation Stonegarden, a program funded by the Department of Homeland Security, has been a proactive law enforcement initiative assisting Yuma area agencies. In addition to providing other agencies essential law enforcement equipment, the Yuma Sector initiated Operation Stonegarden to enhance partnerships with local, state and tribal law enforcement agencies. (Press release, dated 09/18/08, avaiable at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/09182008_5.xml.)

CBP advises of dangers of internally smuggling narcotics. In an effort to raise awareness of the dangers associated with internally smuggling narcotics into to the U.S., CBP has issued a press release informing travelers of the dangers associated with this type of action. (Press release, dated 09/24/08, available at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/09242008.xml.)

CBP posts various WHTI trade guidance. CBP has posted the following Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative guidance (posted 09/24/08):

• Work the Kinks Out before You Cross the Border
• Don't Hold Your Breath, Know What You Need to Cross With Ease
• All Downhill When You Know the Rules at the Border
• Get Your Trophy Home Quick and Easy