Canada and the U.S. Announce Trusted Traveler and Trusted Trader nhancements under Beyond the Border Action Plan

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.