New CBP USMCA Center to Help With Implementation
CBP is using a new center focused on implementation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to help with the process, the agency said in a May 11 news release. “Staffed with CBP experts from operational, legal, and audit disciplines, as well as with virtual representatives from Canadian and Mexican customs authorities, the USMCA Center is a cornerstone of CBP’s USMCA implementation plan and will serve as a central communication hub for CBP and the private sector community, including traders, brokers, freight forwarders and producers, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition from the North American Free Trade Agreement to USMCA,” it said.
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The staff for the center are “CBP’s experts on the trade provisions of USMCA, providing guidance to private and public sector stakeholders,” it said. “Center staff will facilitate a smooth transition from NAFTA by coordinating and scheduling outreach events, responding to training requests, developing and distributing information resources, and updating CBP regulations on pending USMCA topics/issues, while also providing clear and transparent technical guidance on USMCA’s new compliance obligations. Center staff will work closely with Centers of Excellence and Expertise and the ports to ensure CBP’s implementation is uniform and supports U.S. economic security.” NAFTA remains in effect until July 1, and CBP is still working out some of the details around the implementation plans (see 2005110039).