The Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) met for the first time in its 17th term and unanimously approved six recommendations on export modernization, CBP’s Centers of Excellence and Expertise (Centers), and broker modernization. This is a significant step forward for trade operations and a direct result of the positive relationship between CBP and COAC members.
In his opening remarks, Troy A. Miller, CBP’s Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner, highlighted the recent establishment of the Centers Working Group, which was formed in response to a recommendation made by the 21st Century Customs Framework Task Force. This group will work towards modernizing operations and improving communication between CBP and trade stakeholders. The creation of the Centers has been a long-standing goal, first recommended by COAC over a decade ago with the aim of streamlining account-based processing and enhancing trade facilitation.
Miller also emphasized the agency’s efforts to crack down on illegal customs practices that harm American textile manufacturers. He stated that CBP is intensifying targeting and enforcement in this area and that violators will not be eligible for preferential duty treatment under trade agreements such as USMCA and CAFTA-DR. These actions will not only ensure fair competition for American businesses but also protect the integrity of trade agreements.
Before concluding his remarks, Miller expressed his gratitude to COAC members for their dedication and expertise. He acknowledged that their insights and experiences within the trade community are crucial to improving customs operations, and their recommendations and comments are valued by CBP.
The COAC, composed of 20 members from the international trade community, advises the Secretaries of the Department of the Treasury and the Department of Homeland Security on CBP’s commercial operations and related functions. The recommendations approved by COAC aim to enhance CBP’s operations and communications, while also empowering businesses of all sizes to comply with trade laws and policies.
CBP will continue its efforts to engage with the trade community at the 2024 Trade Facilitation and Cargo Security Summit, which will be held in Philadelphia from March 25 to 28. While in-person registration for the summit has reached capacity, virtual registration is still open until March 14.
For more details on the approved recommendations and the next COAC public meeting, scheduled for June 26, visit the COAC webpage. The meetings can be attended in person or virtually.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security responsible for managing, controlling, and protecting our nation’s borders. Combining customs, immigration, border security, and agricultural protection at official ports of entry, CBP plays a critical role in safeguarding the country’s economic and national security.
