News & Information about Transborder and International Trade from GHY International
An updated list of recently published government memorandums, notices, regulations and decisions for the week ending January 27, 2011 is now available on our website here.
Date: January 27, 2012
(Andrea Sachs – Washington Post)
Reentering the United States after a trip overseas can be quick, painless and drama-free — if you know the rules before you go. Here are some tips gleaned from the experts at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Agriculture, and the Fish and Wildlife Service. Read more here.
Date: January 27, 2012
(Winnipeg Free Press)
Two new border access points are open between Manitoba and North Dakota.
The entry ports, refurbished ports on the U.S . side, are located in Gretna and Winkler. The Gretna port adjoins the North Dakota township of Neche, while Winkler is paired up with Walhalla, N.D.
Both ports have operational hours from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the two new ports on the American end have been upgraded to provide increased security measures and better transport flow between the two countries.
Date: January 27, 2012
(CBSA via Marketwire)
Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, took time to celebrate the 2012 International Customs Day and recognize the efforts of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). This year’s theme – Borders Divide, Customs Connects – recognizes the importance of co-operative border management in the global context, where strength is derived from partnership and joint innovation. The day comes under the auspices of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in which Canada has been an active member since 1971.
“The CBSA has had the opportunity, through the WCO, to engage its international partners on matters of mutual interest”, said Minister Toews. “This dialogue has led to collaborative action on a range of issues, promoting harmonization of customs procedures and supply chain security, with the end result of better service for travellers and commercial clients, worldwide.”
The WCO ( www.wcoomd.org ) is an independent intergovernmental body whose mission is to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of customs administrations. With 177 member governments, it is the only intergovernmental worldwide organization competent in customs matters.
“For 60 years, the WCO has encouraged its member organizations to come together in pursuit of solutions to the challenges of international security and global economic stability,” said Luc Portelance, President of the CBSA. “It’s a history that should inspire everyone in the greater customs community, and a legacy that helps define the vital work we do at the CBSA.”
In 2011, the CBSA handled more than 13.5 million commercial releases, helping keep cross-border trade strong and robust. On the enforcement side, the CBSA made over 10,000 drug seizures, taking almost $1.7 billion worth of illegal drugs off our streets. The CBSA accomplished all of this and more while processing over 96 million travellers. The Agency effected over 15,000 removals from Canada. The CBSA also launched the successful “Most Wanted” by the CBSA list resulting in the apprehension of eight individuals and the removal of six from Canada. These actions highlight the role of the CBSA in keeping Canada’s borders safe and secure.
The day may be marked in different ways throughout the CBSA, but the message stays the same. CBSA employees do valuable work, perform an important public service and their dedication is truly appreciated.
Date: January 27, 2012
(Journal of Commerce Online – R.G.Edmonson)
Latest development in battle between MDOT, bridge owner
The Michigan Department of Transportation said it will build an off-ramp connecting the Ambassador Bridge, the busiest U.S.-Canada crossing, to two interstate highways within the next few months.
MDOT received the federal go-ahead after Detroit International Bridge Co., the owner of the bridge, deeded the property to the department. MDOT and DIBC have battled over who should have to build the bridge for two years, with the fight most recently leading to the brief jailing of bridge owner, Manuel “Matty” Moroun. Read more here.
Date: January 27, 2012
(Transport Intelligence – John Manners-Bell)
At the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, the issue of supply chain risk took a high profile, with senior government figures and industry leaders seeking to develop ways in which economic damage caused by disrupted supply chains could be mitigated.
As part of the initiative, a new report was launched at the event. The report, New Models for Addressing Supply Chain and Transport Risks produced in collaboration with Accenture, highlighted the urgent need to review risk management practices. Read more here.
Date: January 27, 2012
