This month, again CBP sent C-TPAT members various news releases regarding seizures involving C-TPAT partners. Due to incidents such as these CBP is raising the bar for expectations of minimum security criteria. All members need to re-evaluate their supply chain security program to make sure that it is complying with CBP’s requirements. This is a clear warning that CBP will take immediate action to suspend/remove partners who are not complying with the minimum criteria of the program.

CBP will continue to send news releases of incidents such as these to raise awareness and restore partner attention regarding supply chain security. CBP wants to inform everyone that seizures of this sort demonstrate that containers/trailers can be compromised, an indication of failure to comply with C-TPAT minimum security criteria. These seizures underscore the importance to have robust supply chain security measures governing inbound and outbound shipments.

CBP is not only targeting northbound shipments but also southbound destined for Mexico for contraband such as firearms and undeclared currency. In the past two weeks there have been four significant seizures involving C-TPAT members going southbound. CBP would like to advise C-TPAT members that they may experience increased inspections at all Southwest border Ports of Entry. Click below to read the news releases.

Click here for April 6, 2009 News Release.

CBP officers seize nearly three tons of marijuana hidden in two FAST shipments at Laredo port of entry.

Click here for April 10, 2009 News Release.

CBP officers at El Paso port seize 4.5 tons of marijuana in one bust.

Click here for April 13, 2009 News Release.

CBP officers seize $1 million in undeclared outbound currency from FAST driver at World Trade Bridge.