Border security
New cross-border trade and customs improvements were first announced by Canada and
the United States in the “Shared Vision for Perimeter Security Declaration” in February 2011.
Implementation of these improvements is currently underway and importers and exporters can
expect to hear more details about these improvements in the future.
Changes are to include improving the programs that help trusted businesses and travellers
move efficiently across the border. This includes NEXUS and the Partners in Protection and
Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism border security programs. It also introduces new
measures to facilitate the movement of goods while reducing the administrative burden for
businesses involved in cross-border trade.
Partners in Protection (PIP)
Canada’s security program enlists the cooperation of private industry in an effort to enhance
border security, combat organized crime and terrorism. It is also intended to help detect and
prevent contraband smuggling while at the same time increasing awareness of customs
compliance issues.
Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT)
C-TPAT is the U.S.’s voluntary government-business initiative designed to strengthen and
improve overall international supply chain and U.S. border security. Through this program,
businesses are asked to ensure the integrity of their security practices and communicate
and verify the security guidelines of their business partners within the supply chain. At this
time, participation in the C-TPAT program is open to U.S. importers, Canadian and Mexican
manufacturers, licensed U.S. customs brokers, consolidators, carriers and third party logistics
providers.
Under the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America, the CBSA and U.S. Customs
and Border Protection have an arrangement for mutual recognition and compatibility of
Canada’s PIP program with the U.S. C-TPAT program. Participation in both of these security
programs is voluntary and requires participants to provide customs with a comprehensive self-
assessment of their current security measures.
International Trade and Customs / 153
Current as of June 30, 2013
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