Second round of C-TPAT reviews in China

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Monday it has conducted more on-site security verifications of facilities in China that do work for U.S. importers in the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism.

   Agency specialists in tandem with China Customs officials visited manufacturing facilities supplying 15 C-TPAT companies. The first round of joint C-TPAT validations occurred last March after years of negotiations to gain access to China.

   CBP supply chain specialists also provided technical assistance to Chinese counterparts regarding supply chain security procedures and best practices for evaluating trusted traders.

   Importers who participate in the voluntary program are eligible for reduced inspection levels and other trade benefits depending on how their security controls match potential risks in their shipping lanes.

   This effort will increase the level of security of importations into the United States as well as lead to fewer exams which will benefit C-TPAT importers and their business partners in China. We look forward to continuing this important bilateral cooperation next year,?C-TPAT Director Bradd Skinner said in a news release. 

Source: American Shipper