What is CTPAT?

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CTPAT stands for Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism is a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) voluntary business initiative designed to build cooperative relationships that strengthen overall supply chain and border security.

The CTPAT initiatives recognizes that CBP can provide the highest level of security to the public and to other stakeholders only through close cooperation with the ultimate owners of the supply chain i.e. importers, carriers, brokers, warehouse operators and manufacturers.

With this initiatives, the Customs is asking businesses to ensure integrity of their security practices and communicate their security guidelines to their business partners within the supply chain.

Benefits of Participating in CTPAT

CTPAT offers trade related businesses an opportunity to play an active role in war against terrorism or any possible threat that may sabotage any countries. By participating in this first ever worldwide supply chain security initiative, companies will ensure a more secure and expeditious supply chain for their employees, suppliers and customers.

Beyond these security benefits, CBP will offer benefits to certain certified CTPAT member categories which include:

  1. A reduced number of CBP inspections i.e. reduced border delay times;
  2. Priority processing for CBP inspections i.e. front line processing for inspection when possible;
  3. Assignment of a CTPAT Supply Chain Security Specialist (SCSS) who will work with the company to validate and enhance security throughout the company's worldwide supply chain;
  4. Potential eligibility for CBP Importer Self Assessment Program (ISA) which emphasizes on self-policing, not CBP audits;
  5. Eligibility to attend CTPAT supply chain security training seminars.
It is clear that security issues will play an ever more important part in international trade logistics. This voluntary program may become a mandatory program in near future. Many companies recognize the participation of CTPAT would be the best practice approach in achieving leadership in their industry.

CBP Expectations of Participants

The CBP expects CTPAT participants to come up with a real commitment towards the common goal of creating a more secure and efficient supply chain through partnership.

The CBP understands that it has entered a new era and requires the assistance of private industries to ensure vigilance throughout the supply chain. CBP recognizes that just as it protects the trade and US borders, businesses must ensure that their brands, employees and customers are protected to the best of their abilities.

Confidentiality of Data

The CBP has stated that all information on supply chain security submitted by companies or industries applying for the CTPAT participation shall be treated in strictest confidentiality possible.

The CBP shall not disclosee a company's participation in the CTPAT.

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