The Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) today issued recommendations to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)’s Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), urging a careful balance of security measures and trade efficiency. The Alliance also encouraged CBP to develop a contingency plan for the data transmission systems. EIA’s comments were made in response to CBP’s proposed regulations on enhanced security.  

Regulations recently proposed by CBP would require cargo shippers to provide to customs and border security officials advance notice of electronic manifest information on all shipments. While EIA is encouraged that DHS has made border protection a priority, the Alliance’s corporate members continue to call for revisions in key areas.

EIA strongly recommends that CBP further consider its proposed advance notice requirements and their potential impact on the flow of trade. The current proposals will cost businesses time, money and productivity, as most high-tech manufacturers rely heavily on a just-in-time supply-chain system for optimum efficiency.

In its comments, EIA also recommends that regulators mandate a contingency plan to keep commerce flowing in case of a crisis.  During an event such as last month’s massive power outage or the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the U.S. economy must continue to function efficiently. A customs system that processes 25 million commercial trade entries a year cannot afford to come to a halt.

“Without a comprehensive approach, our nation’s points of entry will remain vulnerable to terrorist activity and attack,” said Dave McCurdy, the president of EIA.  “EIA is pleased that Customs is working closely with industry to enhance security.  We look forward to cooperating with security officials to create smart solutions which   provides the maximum amounts of security without imposing cumbersome regulations that burden commerce.”

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