Global Cold Chain Alliance urges USMCA modernization to improve cross-border cold chain efficiency
Key takeaways
- USMCA renewal ensures predictable cross-border movement of meat, dairy, frozen, and fresh produce for trucking fleets.
- Fully interoperable digital SPS systems such as PHIS, PCIT, MyCFIA, and VUCEM reduce paperwork and speed perishable shipments.
- Risk-based inspections and coordinated customs/SPS operations help fleets avoid delays and maintain cold chain integrity.
The Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) is supporting the Agricultural Coalition for USMCA and emphasized the importance of both continuity and modernization of the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Trade Agreement. The alliance, which represents temperature-controlled logistics providers across North America, noted that USMCA is essential for the safe, secure, and efficient movement of perishable food and other temperature-sensitive products.
GCCA highlighted that the U.S., Canada, and Mexico have invested in digital sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) certification systems such as PHIS, PCIT, MyCFIA, and VUCEM, but interoperability remains limited. The organization identified several opportunities to strengthen trade efficiency and cold chain reliability:
- Make digital SPS certification systems fully interoperable to reduce paper requirements and administrative burdens.
- Complete the transition to fully digital pre-clearance and pre-arrival processing to accelerate border clearance.
- Expand mutual recognition of equivalent food safety systems to reduce duplicative inspections.
- Build trusted operator and risk-based inspection programs to focus regulatory resources on higher-risk shipments.
- Improve coordination between customs and SPS agencies, including staffing, operating hours, and inspection procedures.
GCCA emphasized that USMCA provides regulatory stability that supports continued investment in refrigerated warehouses, transportation fleets, and monitoring technologies. Modernizing digital SPS interoperability will enhance supply chain efficiency, strengthen traceability, and allow regulators to verify compliance in real time.
