American Shipper reports that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is preparing to release the first draft of security criteria being prepared for customs brokers participating in the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). American Shipper notes that CBP officials recognize that brokers don't have the ability to control the operations of shippers and overseas intermediaries; however, CBP expects brokers to play a role in screening companies shipping product to the U.S. (American Shipper Pub November 2006, www.americanshipper.com)
(Will Not be Provided in Tucson)
The Pacific Coast Council of Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Associations held its annual Western Cargo Conference (WESCCON) on October 19-21, 2006 in Irvine, CA, during which officials from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spoke.
On August 29, 2006, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued its new minimum-security criteria for rail carriers. CBP had also issued an associated implementation plan, which included a three-phase implementation schedule for rail carriers already enrolled in the C-TPAT program.
Shippers' Newswire reports that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) expects to complete this month a preliminary blueprint to test the feasibility of using outside auditors to help verify the C-TPAT supply chain security practices of foreign suppliers. The article adds that according to CBP Commissioner Basham, third-party validation is a tool that CBP can use for locations where the U.S. has little access, such as China. (AS, dated 10/12/06, www.americanshipper.com )
The University of Texas at Austin's Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs has issued a report for the Congressional Research Service which is entitled "Port and Supply-Chain Security Initiatives in the United States and Abroad".
On September 30, 2006, the House and Senate passed (agreed to) the conference version of H.R. 4954, entitled the "Security and Accountability for Every Port Act of 2006" (SAFE Port Act), which is a measure intended to improve maritime and cargo security through enhanced layered defenses, and for other purposes.
The Journal of Commerce (JoC) has conducted a reader survey on post-9/11 supply chain security progress. Among other things, JoC asked its readers about Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) benefits. The magazine reports that 46% of certified and validated C-TPAT members have fewer inspections, 41% have experienced faster release of cargo at U.S. ports, 31% have received no benefits, and 12% cited other benefits received as a result of C-TPAT membership. (JoC Pub 09/11/06, www.joc.com)
On September 30, 2006, the House and Senate passed (agreed to) the conference version of H.R. 4954, entitled the "Security and Accountability for Every Port Act of 2006" (SAFE Port Act), which is a measure intended to improve maritime and cargo security through enhanced layered defenses, and for other purposes.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued an administrative message stating that ABI software vendors and self-programmers will be able to learn about the proposed CATAIR changes planned under ACE at the ACE Exchange II Conference to be held in Tucson, Arizona on October 30, 2006 - November 2, 2006. The breakout session on the CATAIR will be held on November 1, 2006 as part of the general sessions for importers and brokers. During the breakout session, ABI software vendors and self-programmers will be able to provide input on the proposed technical changes to the CATAIR. Information on attending this free conference is available at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/about/modernization/ace_ex_conf/(CBP Adm: 06-1123, dated 09/29/06, available at http://www.brokerpower.com/cgi-bin/adminsearch/admmsg.view.pl?article=2006/2006-1123.ADM )