Washington – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Deputy Commisioner David V. Aguilar today participated in the Border Interagency Executive Council. The council is made up of senior executives from 10 U.S. federal agencies and collaborates on issues including the federal government's efforts to transform the trade process, ongoing efforts across federal agencies to partner with the trade, and the use of automation to streamline the international trade clearance process.

During the event, agency heads worked to develop a “one U.S. government” approach to partnerships with the trade. By working cooperatively with its federal partners to jointly implement and monitor these programs, CBP expects to reduce the universe of shipments that require inspection or review at the border.

A key underpinning to the “one U.S. government” approach is to move from paper to electronic filings required for commodities regulated by each agency in a central location. Early electronic filings by trade can significantly shorten agency review time and provide an initial indication if certain requirements are met. These electronic filings are key to better facilitating movement of legitimate goods, and minimizing reporting burdens for trade.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.