The customs brokers associations of Canada, the United States and Mexico
have joined forces to enhance the security and efficiency of cross-border trade
throughout North America. Formed on August 17, 2004, the North American Customs Brokers Alliance (NACBA) draws on the unique expertise
and market presence of brokers in all three countries to help importers, exporters, and governments address customs issues in the largest single free trade market in the world.
Total trade between the three
countries reached $626 billion in 2003, compared to $109 billion in 1994 -- an increase of some 574 percent in less than 10 years.
The Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB), the National Customs Brokers and
Forwarders Association of America, Inc. (NCBFAA) and the Confederacion de Asociaciones de Agentes Aduanales de la Republica Mexicana (CAAAREM) represent the leading brokers and freight forwarders in their countries.
Members handle 80-95 percent of all import transactions in North America, on behalf of hundreds of thousands of traders.
Speaking on behalf of the Alliance, CSCB Chairman Michel Vallee said that "rapid
growth in trade, and renewed concerns about security, raise challenges for both business and governments. At the same time, advanced information technologies have become critical -- both for businesses seeking to
improve supply chain management, and for governments seeking smarter ways to protect the integrity and security of border crossings."
Vallee noted that customs brokers work daily mediating between the needs
of business and governments. "The Alliance brings technical expertise and a unique understanding of the challenges faced by all parties. Working together, we have a valuable opportunity to help shape effective,
streamlined procedures at our shared borders and ports of entry."
The first priority for the Alliance will focus on Advance Commercial Information (ACI) requirements and procedures. Each government is
developing and implementing ACI regulations and related electronic reporting requirements. Before the end of 2004 the Alliance will present a common position on ACI to all three governments that meets security
requirements, while facilitating legitimate trade. |
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