C-TPAT and Supply Chain Security: The 2013 Conference Perspective

Archive — 2013 conference context. This article describes the programme and figures discussed at that time. For current eligibility and requirements, consult U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s CTPAT guidance. Participation is voluntary and subject to CBP’s applicable criteria.

A customs–business partnership

The conference brought together manufacturers, importers, carriers, retailers, customs brokers and freight forwarders. Its theme emphasized shared international security and the challenges ahead.

C-TPAT began in November 2001 following the September 11 attacks, with seven major companies participating initially. By the January 2013 conference, the programme had more than 10,500 members representing approximately 55% of U.S. imports. About 1,200 delegates attended the conference.

Trade facilitation and security

CBP representative McAleenan described the need to protect borders without unnecessarily slowing legitimate trade. The report cited 2012 volumes of more than 12 million ocean containers, three million rail cars, nearly 11 million border containers and approximately 100 million air shipments.

The discussion recognized the pressure of growing trade, increasingly complex threats and constrained government resources. Cooperation with the private sector was presented as essential to effective risk management.

Coordination and mutual recognition

The conference emphasized aligning related security initiatives and improving cooperation with agencies such as the FDA and TSA.

At that time, seven mutual-recognition arrangements covered Canada, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, New Zealand, the European Union and Taiwan, while agreements with Mexico and Israel were under discussion. This is a historical list, not the current set of arrangements.

Sector expertise and wider participation

The event included businesses outside the programme and discussed industry-focused centres intended to improve expertise and facilitate legitimate imports. It also helped public and private participants understand each other’s responsibilities.

Implications for suppliers in Vietnam

Vietnamese manufacturers, transport providers and trading companies may need to meet the security expectations of customers participating in CTPAT. Implementing customer requirements is distinct from being directly eligible for CBP membership.

ITVC provides consulting to help businesses assess security gaps, develop procedures and prepare evidence appropriate to their supply-chain role. Consulting does not itself confer CBP status.

Related ITVC resources

• Introduction to C-TPAT
• Benefits of C-TPAT
• C-TPAT consulting process