NFPA praises Customs Bureau proposal

The National Food Processors Association (NFPA) commended the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection on its proposed rules for Advanced Electronic Information Presentation of Cargo Information, calling the proposal Òa reasonable and workable approach to security in the transportation sector, which will help to ensure the nationÕs food security.Ó

This proposed rule mandates advanced notice of information about inbound and outbound cargo through an electronic reporting system. The rule is part of the implementation process for the Trade Act of 2002, as amended by the Maritime Port Security Act of 2002, to enhance the security of United States borders.

ÒNFPA commends the Customs Bureau for proposing rules that will help to strengthen the security of the US food supply and satisfy statutory requirements for the movement of goods into and out of the United States without significant trade disruptions,Ó said John R Cady, NFPA president and chief executive officer. ÒThe rules will require changes to operational practices for the food industry, but provide for reasonable, effective implementation that will smooth the transition.Ó