FORT ERIE, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - July 21, 2014) - Canada Border Services Agency
The Government of Canada today announced that Canada and the United States (U.S.) are delivering on key Beyond the Border Action Plan commitments related to joint Trusted Traveller and Trusted Trader programs, including the official opening of the eGate pilot project that allows NEXUS members extended expedited passage at the Peace Bridge port of entry in Fort Erie, Ontario.
In addition, trusted traders importing goods into Canada can now apply for additional benefits to help them save time and money. Customs Self Assessment - Platinum (CSA-Platinum) is available to CSA importers who voluntarily demonstrate that their business systems, internal controls and self-testing processes are effective and reliable at ensuring trade compliance. In addition, non-resident importers in the U.S. will now be eligible to apply to the CSA importer program. Previously, only importers residing in Canada or, in the case of corporations who had their head office in Canada or operated a branch office in Canada, were eligible to participate in the CSA program.
The CBSA has also launched a new online Trusted Trader Portal that allows companies to apply for membership in the Partners in Protection (PIP) program, and allows existing members to maintain their Trusted Trader membership. The Portal will serve as the foundation for future phases of Trusted Trader enhancements, including the streamlined exchange of program information between the Trusted Trader and the U.S. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) portals.
Quick Facts
NEXUS
CSA-Platinum
Trusted Trader Portal
Quotes
"These innovative initiatives are important examples of the continued enhancements being made to these successful Trusted Traveller and Trusted Trader programs. They highlight our binational commitment to initiatives outlined in the Beyond the Border Action Plan. I am confident that these steps will keep travel and trade moving efficiently and securely between Canada and the United States."
-The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
"The eGate pilot project and enhancements to Trusted Trader programs are an important step for businesses and individuals in our community, and on both sides of the border. We are supporting our local economy and facilitating trade in Niagara Falls, as well as across Canada. These improvements further enhance our trade relationship with our U.S. neighbours and highlight our shared commitment to a strong and effective border."
- The Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence and MP for Niagara Falls, ON
"Our continued success in achieving Beyond the Border milestones illustrates our commitment to a strong partnership between the United States and Canada.The harmonization of trusted trader and traveller programs benefits those crossing the border as well as the economic security of both countries."
- R. Gil Kerlikowske, Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
"There is no doubt that NEXUS improves the flow of legitimate travel and trade across the shared Canada-U.S. border. As one of the busiest land border crossings, we are happy to be holding this pilot project at Peace Bridge which provides NEXUS members with 24/7 access to a dedicated lane."
- Sam Hoyt, Chairman of the Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority
"From the beginning, the Canadian Council of Chief Executives has strongly supported the Beyond the Border initiative because of its potential to streamline cross-border commerce and improve Canadian and U.S. competitiveness. The innovative, practical measures announced today will make a tangible difference to workers and companies on both sides of the border. The eGate pilot project at the Peace Bridge offers an excellent example of the ways in which technology can make border crossings faster and easier while enhancing security. Meanwhile, improvements to the Customs Self-Assessment program will enable more Canadian firms to take advantage of the opportunities presented by global supply chains."
-The Honourable John Manley, President and CEO of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives
Associated Links
Customs Self Assessment - Platinum
Customs Self Assessment - Non-resident importers
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